Soil Testing

Agricultural Soil Analysis for Phytonutrients

Standard tests performed by AGROLAB entail pH, soil type, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium using the CAL or DL method. Fertiliser regulations demand that farmers test for pH and phosphorus content every six years as a minimum. Providing plants with adequate food in the form of trace elements such as boron, copper, manganese, molybdenum, sodium and zinc, so as to guarantee growth and yield, is just as important as supplying them with macronutrients. Check the content of your soil.

N_min - Bioavailability of Nitrogen in the Soil

Cropland is rich in organic nitrogen. Under the influence of moisture and warmth, a small percentage of this nitrogen is mineralised by microbes in the soil (producing mineral nitrogen:N_min), making it available to plants.

 

The supply of nitrogen usually has to be supplemented by fertilisers. Nmin testing as the growing season begins is essential for ensuring that the use of fertilisers remains inexpensive whilst guaranteeing a good yield and quality.
Furthermore, Nmin testing in the autumn is an important tool for protecting groundwater.
Essential feature: Nmin samples need to be kept in an unbroken cold chain (below 5°C) when sent for analysis. We can provide cool bags and cold packs upon request.

Mineral Sulphur

Sulphur behaves in a similar way to nitrogen in the soil. Combine Nmin analysis with Smin and fertilise your plants with precisely the formulation that they need. Substantial amounts of sulphur are required: 25-40 kg/ha for grain and sugar beets, 35-50 kg/ha for grassland.

Essential feature: Smin samples need to be kept in an unbroken cold chain (below 5°C) when sent for analysis. We can provide cool bags and cold packs upon request.

Heavy Metals in Soil

Agrigultural soil must be regularly tested for heavy metals in conjunction with the agricultural use of sludge (Sewage Sludge Ordinance [AbfKlärV]) and compost (Biowaste Ordinance [BioAbfV]). To this end, legislation dictates that testing be performed for lead, chromium, cadmium, copper, nickel, mercury and zinc. General agricultural soil analysis (type of soil, pH, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium) is naturally included. Testing may only be performed by accredited test institutes. The AGROLAB Group has all the requisite certifications nationwide.

As defined by the sewage sludge and biowaste regulations, samples may only be taken by trained, certified samplers. We're glad to offer you our support.

Physical soil analysis is a speciality of our laboratory. Whether it is the mixing ratio for sports turf, sludge analysis or an ion exchange capacity, you will find the desired analysis here.

Alternative Soil Analysis for lawns: Mehlich-3

The Mehlich-3 method from the USA is based on a weakly acidic extraction process and can be used for a number of elements. Higher nutrient contents are detected, especially for phosphorus. Based on this method, the MLSN fertiliser system for lawns was developed: with lower dosages and consequently cost-saving.

 

Substrate Analysis for Commercial Horticulture

AGROLAB provides test methods for floriculture, tree nurseries, horticulture, gardening & landscaping, golf courses and public greenery.

CAT method

Suitable in particular for substrates. Covers N, P, K, Mg, Na, pH, salt content, conductivity, volumetric weight and, optionally: Al, B, Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn.

CAL method

For horticultural soils and substrates: N, P, K, Mg, pH, volumetric weight, salt content for all mineral soils (open land): P, K, Mg, pH, N

DL method

For all mineral soils (open land): P, K, Mg, pH, N

Nmin method

Determining soluble nitrogen for tree nurseries, fruit & vegetable cultivation in the form of NO3-N, NH4-N in 1-3 layers

Fertiliser advice

You can request written advice on suitable fertilisers based on your samples, which will be provided by externally appointed experts.

Soil Analysis for Recreational Horticulture

Appropriate fertilisation, even in the back garden, is important for maintaining healthy soil and producing a good-quality harvest.
In addition to the analytical values and evaluation, the results of your soil analysis will include details of appropriate fertilisers. It will also suggest when fertilisation would be most suitable. The suggested fertilisers can be found at specialised garden centres.
Instructions on how to take samples can be found on page 2 of the form (see right).
We can provide garden centres with retail-designed sampling packs (sampling instructions, guidance, bag, mailing envelope).