Authors : Prashant S. Utale
Page Nos : 144-150
Description :
Soil test commonly refers to the analysis of a soil sample to determine nutrients content, composition & other characteristics such as the acidity or pH level. A soil test can determine fertility or the expected growth potential of the soil which indicates nutrients deficiencies, potential toxicities for excessive fertility and inhabitations from the presence of non-essential trace minerals. The test is used to the function of roots to assimilate minerals. The expected rate of growth is modeled by the law of maximum. Composite sampling can be performed by combining soil from several locations prior to analysis. This is a common procedure, but should be used judiciously to avoid skewing results. This procedure must be done so that government sampling requirements are met. A reference map should be created to record the location and quantity of field samples in order to properly interpret test results. Soil testing is often performed by commercial labs that offer a variety of tests, targeting groups of compounds and minerals. The advantage associated with local lab is that they are familiar with the chemistry of the soil in the area where the sample is taken. This enables technicians to recommend the test that are most likely to reveal useful information
