Soil Testing Services
MB Laboratories Ltd. offers a complete line of soil testing services. Soil testing is the most accurate guide to your crop’s fertilizer requirements. A regular soil testing program will allow you to increase productivity and save money by utilizing the existing fertility already present in your soil.
Important Elements in Soil Fertility
- Lime
- The application of lime neutralizes soil that is too acidic (low pH). It also provides calcium and makes other nutrients available to plants.
- Nitrogen
- Various plants require Nitrogen at different levels. Nitrogen can be added to the soil. Sandy soils normally require more Nitrogen than clay soils.
- Phosphorous
- Often present in the soil but not always in a form that plants can use.
- Boron
- Deficient on many soils, Boron is required only in trace amounts. It can be added to the soil as long as the existing levels are low.
Some Commonly Asked Questions
The standard soil fertility test measures nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, and pH.
Yes. A complete soil analysis measures all of the major and minor elements including nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, manganese, zinc, copper, cobalt and boron. Also included are pH and conductivity.
Every two to three growing seasons.
- Select area(s) to be sampled. If the test area is large or there are significant differences between sections such as a wet boggy spot versus a dry rocky patch - these should be kept as separate samples.
- Within the selected test area, collect the 5-10 sub-samples from soil that would be at the same depth that the plant roots would be expected to be in. Put these sub-samples in a small, clean pail or bucket. Mix well then take 1-2 cups and transfer to a clean container or zip-lock baggie. Label the sample with location or code, date and time. The sample does not need to be refrigerated.