What are good soil test results?

Test results higher than 40 and 220 for phosphorus and potassium, respectively, are sufficient for most crops. Calcium is associated with soil pH. Soils with a good pH generally have adequate calcium, and soils low in calcium generally need lime. A test result of 500 or higher is adequate.

How do you read a soil test report?

A reading of 7 is neutral; crops typically grow best when pH is between 6 (slightly acidic) and 7.5 (slightly alkaline). Results of soil pH are reported on a logarithmic scale; a soil with a pH of 6 is 10 times more acidic than a soil with a pH of 7, and a pH of 5 is 100 times more acidic than a pH of 7.

What soil test report means?

A soil test can determine fertility, or the expected growth potential of the soil which indicates nutrient deficiencies, potential toxicities from excessive fertility and inhibitions from the presence of non-essential trace minerals. The test is used to mimic the function of roots to assimilate minerals.

How do you Analyse soil samples?

Soil sampling must be conducted properly to obtain quality soil test results. Each sample should be representative of the entire field or specified sampling unit. Samples must be taken at the proper depth during the same time frame every year. Sample depths can vary by test, but are usually 6 to 12 inches.

What is P and K in soil?

Soil Tests Are Key Together with nitrogen, P and K form the Big Three of crop nutrients. P plays a crucial role in plant processes like photosynthesis, respiration, and energy storage and transfer. K benefits include increased root growth, improved drought tolerance, and enhanced photosynthesis.

What are three items found on a soil test report?

The Standard Gardening Test on the Home, Grounds & Garden form includes conventional and organic recommendations; nutrients include extractable calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus; organic matter content, and soil pH. Also included is a soil lead screening analysis.

What are the types of soil sample?

3 Types of Soil Samples

  • Undisturbed Soil Samples.
  • Representative or Disturbed Soil Sample.
  • Non-representative Soil Sample.

What is considered a high CEC?

Organic matter has a very high CEC ranging from 250 to 400 meq/100 g (Moore 1998). Because a higher CEC usually indicates more clay and organic matter is present in the soil, high CEC soils generally have greater water holding capacity than low CEC soils.

What is K in soil test?

The soil test for K is the best management tool for predicting the amount of potash needed in a fertilizer program. Available K in soils is estimated by measuring the total of solution K (water = soluble K) and exchangeable K.