Albion Laboratory Services - Soil Analysis

Three types of soil analysis reports are available to assist in the interpretation of soil nutrient status. These are:
a) MAFF Standard Soil Analysis – Short Test/Teagasc Soil Analysis

• Soil pH
• Soil pH Buffer (Teagasc Soil Analysis only)
• P (Available) mg/I
• K (Available) mg/I
• Mg (Available) mg/I

Click for PDF File Example - MAFF Standard Soil Analysis
 

b) Intermediate Analysis
This analysis is recommended for fields that have been previously tested using the Full Mineral Analysis. It gives all the information that MAFF/Teagasc tests offer. Along with the addition of Organic Matter, Cation Exchange Capacity, Calcium, Potassium, Sodium and Hydrogen. However it does not give the full depth analysis required to give the complete picture required for fields being tested for the first time.

Click for PDF File Example - Intermediate Soil Analysis
 

c) Full Mineral Analysis – Full Test
This report extends the MAFF/Teagasc soil tests by expressing macro-elements (K< Mg, Ca, Na, H) in terms of % cation exchange capacity. In addition, a full range of trace elements are analysed. The purpose of this report is to assess the overall “available” nutrient status of the soil from which both fertiliser and foliar applications can be recommended. This analysis is intended for fields being tested for the first time.

The MAFF short test and the more comprehensive soil analysis have been combined into a single report.

The purpose of this combined report is not only to enable an interpretation of the soil analysis to be undertaken quickly by reference to a coloured line in a “Very Low-Low-Mean-High-Very High” band, but also to produce fertiliser recommendations. These take the form of recommending N-P-K-S soil based fertilisers (kg/hectare).

Click for PDF File Example - Full Soil Analysis
Click for PDF File Example - Full Soil Analysis (Teagasc)
 

1. What are the benefits?
2. Improved yields with increased efficiency of fertilizer utilisation.
3. Enhanced microbial activity in the soil improving nutrient availability to plant roots and aeration.
4. Faster integration of organic matter into the soil structure itself, allowing improved nutrient levels and water holding capacity of the soil.
5. Better, faster, stronger root development allowing crop plants to out compete weed infestation.
6. Soils able to recover from compaction.
7. Crops of better nutrient density, palatability and conservation quality.
8. Improved crop and livestock disease resistance, health and productivity.