ANALYSIS REPORT
How to Read Your Report
Soil Analysis
The lab conducts an in-depth soil analysis to provide a thorough understanding of soil properties and nutrient levels, categorized into primary, secondary, and micronutrient groups. Understanding the interplay between soil properties and nutrient elements is crucial for promoting healthy crop growth. This detailed breakdown helps illustrate how different components work together to support crop health.
Soil Properties
Effective soil management hinges on understanding key soil properties, which influence nutrient availability and plant uptake.
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Soil pH & Buffer pH:
Indicates soil acidity or alkalinity, affecting nutrient availability.
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Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC):
Measures the soil's ability to hold and exchange nutrients.
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Organic Matter (OM):
Essential for soil structure and nutrient supply.
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Estimated Nitrogen Release (ENR):
Estimates nitrogen potentially released from organic matter ratings.
Balanced soil properties, such as optimal buffer pH, adequate CEC, and sufficient organic matter, support nutrient availability. Conversely, imbalances like extreme pH, low CEC, or limited organic matter can lead to nutrient deficiencies or toxicities. Addressing these imbalances is crucial for nutrient uptake and healthy crop growth.
Plants, like humans, have basic needs that must be met for optimal growth. They require a steady supply of both macronutrients and micronutrients. Differing mainly in the quantities needed, rather than importance.
Macronutrients
Needed in larger quantities, which are divided into two groups:
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Primary:
Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K). Required in the highest concentrations, often the first to be depleted in the soil. Fertilization is always needed for one or more nutrients.
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Secondary:
Calcium (Ca), and Magnesium (Mg). Although essential, these are usually needed in lower quantities than primary macronutrients. Usually sufficient in soil, so fertilization is not always needed
Micronutrients
Essential for plant development and growth but are needed only in trace amounts.
These include Boron (B), Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), and Zinc (Zn). Despite their low required quantities, they are vital for healthy plant growth.
When nutrient levels are deficient, you can apply amendments to increase values to their target levels. However, if levels are too high, the best approach is usually to stop further amendment applications containing the nutrient, allowing the soil to naturally release the excess over time.
Soil Assessment
Soil testing and tailored nutrient management practices are essential for identifying and addressing deficiencies, ensuring optimal nutrient balance for crops. The lab uses findings from soil analysis and extensive research to evaluate and address the soil’s amendment needs for the upcoming growing season, specifically tailored to the crop you are cultivating.
The assessment is divided into three key areas:
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Nitrogen Assignment,
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Deficiencies
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pH Modifiers.
Recommendations are provided per 1,000 square feet, not accounting for the total amount needed for your entire area.
Nitrogen Assignment
Nitrogen is highly dynamic and constantly moving within the soil. Instead of testing for the nitrogen currently present, the lab provides an annual nitrogen need based on standardized guidelines and research. This determines the most effective application rate, ensuring optimal growing conditions for your specific crop
Deficiencies
The lab identifies necessary nutrient amendments based on the soil analysis performed. This involves any nutrients that fall short of the target levels. Although some deficiencies may involve trace elements that aren't specifically addressed by individual products, they are typically included in the fertilizer blends for N, P ,and K.
pH Modifiers
Recommendations for adjusting soil pH levels help maintain a balanced environment for crop growth. pH Modifiers can raise or lower the soil’s pH as needed. Raising pH is recommended when it is below the target level, while lowering pH is advised when it exceeds the desired range for the crop. Correct pH is essential for nutrient availability and absorption.
Treatment
Recommendations
By integrating soil analysis, lab-identified amendments, and details such as crop type, area size, and zip code provided during the registration process, we offer personalized treatment recommendations tailored to your crops' needs. Recommendations include seasonal application splits specific to each crop's requirements and the exact amount of pounds needed for your entire area. Aligning scientific insights with available store products ensures practical solutions that are easily accessible.
