Soil testing
Would you like soil testing and soil sample-taking to be carried out for your arable and horticultural plots, ornamental gardens, lawns, urban greenery and sports fields? We analyse the soil samples determine the state of fertilisation and the presence of harmful nematodes. Based on the analysis results, we issue fertiliser recommendations so that you can make sure that soil fertility is restored. Precisely tailored to each specific crop. Important parameters that are measured are pH, organic matter, phosphate, potassium and magnesium. We will gladly tell you more about soil testing.
When it comes to soil testing, the period from October to March is the best time to take a soil sample for advice on fertiliser use. Taking a good sample forms the start of the fertiliser testing or soil testing. Consequently, it is essential that this is carried out correctly. You can either have sample-taking carried out by a sample-taking agent or do it yourself.
The right time to check if the amount of nitrogen and potassium present in the soil is enough is while the crops are growing. Which is why we carry out soil testing for you. Nitrogen is one of the most valuable nutrients for plants, it ensures the growth and green colour of the crop. Nitrogen is present in the soil in the form of ammonium and nitrate. We carry out an N-mineral and potassium analysis on the sample in order to ascertain whether there is enough present.
Under the terms of the derogation decree of the European Commission, a farm that meets the derogation conditions may apply more animal manure than specified in the Dutch Manure and Fertilisers Act. This requires as a minimum that the soil has samples taken and analysed for the phosphate state (‘P-status’ and/or ‘PAL’) and the nitrogen supply capacity.
In order to qualify for a higher level of phosphate use (phosphate differentiation), it is mandatory to have samples taken from a plot and analysed for phosphate content. If after sampling a plot the phosphate content of the soil is low or neutral, then more phosphate may be applied. We are happy to do this for you.
Would you like help with carrying out soil testing? Our specialists are happy to help you. Feel free to contact us for more information.
We work according to a quality system that is based on NEN-EN-ISO/IEC 17025, the international standard covering general requirements for the competence of laboratories. Normec Robalab is accredited by the Dutch Accreditation Council (RvA) in accordance with this standard.
