Soil Testing Cost – The Real Cost of Soil Management
In this article, we discuss Soil testing is a process where samples of the tested soil are analyzed under controlled conditions. Samples are analyzed for fertility, soil compaction, density, pH, and water content.
Agricultural Land
Soil testing is carried out on agricultural land as well as on crops to check the quality of soil and determine crop growth potential. Soil quality can greatly affect crop yield as well as the cost of production. Soil quality can be assessed by using soil testing instruments such as boreholes and field guides. When soil testing is performed on crop fields, the soil is tested from three directions: inside the field, above the field, and at least three feet below the crop field surface.
It can be performed to evaluate the soil’s ability to retain water, retain organic matter, conduct chemical decomposition, filter air, absorb CO2, and retain soil moisture. Samples are usually taken of various depths. The samples are analyzed using various methods including chemical methods, optical mineralogy, mass spectrometry, and ultra-filtration. Different soil testing methods are also applied in greenhouse crops to evaluate the quality of the soil for pest control and to ensure adequate fertilization. Greenhouse crops are usually planted in soils with good soil fertility and with a decent amount of dissolved solids, but in some cases, additional soil testing may be required.
Test Results
It is important to interpret the soil testing results thoroughly and to always use a report generated after each procedure. Always use the latest software and technologies available to get the most accurate results possible. You can always make a copy of the soil testing report. Copies can be made by yourself or you can ask the laboratory where the testing was done to provide you with a hard copy for your reference. Before you begin analyzing the soil sample, you should always prepare all the interpretative data beforehand, if necessary.
Construction Sites
Construction projects often require soil testing equipment and services. When testing is performed on a commercial/academic construction project, soil samples are usually collected before construction is started and then stored in a lab until it is time to test the soil. Some laboratories have also started offering soil sample collection services to the public, enabling the soil testing equipment and soil sampling services to be used by any person interested in conducting testing on their own.
Cost
Its cost can vary depending on the type of test performed, the quantity tested, soil condition at the testing site, lab fee and the number of tests required. The cost can also be affected by whether the samples are submitted on-site or taken to a laboratory and then sent off to the laboratory. Also, the cost of transportation and lab fees may apply. Sampling and testing costs will vary depending on the size and scope of the project. Need a cost estimate?Contact https://www.aussiesoil.com.au/ for a genuine quote.
Soil biology and soil testing can help determine if a crop needs to be added to a buffer or not. If a buffer is established, then the soil could hold more nutrients for a longer period. buffer systems are sometimes beneficial where there is a need for organic matter in the soil, or to control erosion. The two key things to remember when using soil biology and soil testing is that the process can be time-consuming and the results important. Results should be discussed with a soil consultant to ensure that the testing procedures are fulfilling all of the objectives.
