Our Goals

The Soil Nutrient Analysis Laboratory has three major objectives. First is to provide an inexpensive means for both agricultural producers and home owners to test their soil fertility and receive environmentally sound limestone and fertilizer recommendations. The second major focus of the Laboratory is education. Through our analyses as well as outreach efforts, clients and the public are being informed about wise soil management and fertility practices. The Laboratory also analyses research samples for University faculty and graduate students and serves as a teaching laboratory for several Department of Plant Science classes.

Soil Analysis

The laboratory processes about 14,000 soil samples annually. Samples are routinely tested for a variety of major and minor plant nutrients, lead and pH. Limestone and fertilizer recommendations are based on University research and field studies. Plants grown under optimum soil pH and fertility levels typically are healthier and more vigorous. Applications of limestone or fertilizer in inadequate or excessive amounts, wastes both time and money, can cause plants to perform poorly and, in the case of excessive fertilizer use, can negatively impact our surface and ground water supplies.

Nitrogen Testing

In addition to routine soil fertility testing, the SNAL also offers commercial agronomic and commercial vegetable growers the Pre-sidedress Soil Nitrate Test (PSNT). From June 1st through August 15th, soil samples are analyzed for nitrate-nitrogen on a 24 hour turnover. As a companion to the PSNT, our laboratory performs the End-of-Season Cornstalk Nitrate Test after harvest.

Green House Media

Saturated Media Extract (SME) is available to growers using soil-less potting media.

Soil Testing Services for Lawns, Gardens and Commercial Crops