Sampling & Analysis
"Measure what is measurable, and make measurable what is not so."
Galileo Galilei quotes (Italian natural Philosopher, Astronomer and
Mathematician who made fundamental contributions to the development of the
scientific method and to the sciences of motion, astronomy and strength of
materials. 1564-1642)
"If you can't measure it, you can't manage it."
George Odiorne - proponent of management by objectives
Soil sampling and analysis
Soil sampling is a useful measurement for achieving good soil and crop management. It allows you to:
- measure the nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, calcium and magnesium in the soil
- Check the adequacy of essential trace elements such as iron, boron, manganese, copper, zinc and molybdenum
- determine the physical, chemical and biological properties of your soil
- consider possible nutrient deficiencies or toxicities
- plan fertiliser programs, and
- monitor long-term fertility trends.
The results of soil tests provide a good indication of the type and amount of fertiliser required to achieve optimum growth for a particular crop.
