Benefits of Soil Health Testing
Traditional soil tests measure the physical and chemical properties of soil while soil health tests have a microbiological component for a more complete soil assessment.
By digging deeper into the physical, chemical and biological interactions we can make improved agronomic recommendations for higher yields and greater profit.
Establish a Baseline
Accurate Results
Improved recommendations
Soil Health Tests
Vitellus® Soil Health Test
A&L Canada Laboratories supports farmers and crop consultants to improve soil health through research, information, soil management recommendations and education.
Traditional soil tests measure the physical and chemical properties of soil, and that is valuable, but soil is a living, dynamic and continually changing ecosystem and requires a more holistic approach with a microbiological component for a more complete soil assessment and allowing to make improved agronomic recommendations. The biological composition of the soil reflects the presence of disease suppressing and bio-stimulating microorganisms in the rhizosphere.
Solvita® Soil Health Test
Soil Health is an emerging concept of soil fertility which includes biological traits like microbial respiration in equal footing with nutrient chemistry.
Solvita® soil tests capture these key biological, chemical and physical traits indicating healthy functioning in a farm system.
Ways to Improve your Soil Health
Taken from post from Soil Optix (need to reword): https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7054522083321511936/
1. Soil Analysis
You can’t manage what you don’t measure! Soil analysis helps to set a baseline for parameters such as pH, nutrient levels, organic matter content, and so much more.
2. Nutrient Management Planning
NMP involves carefully monitoring and managing fertilizer use to minimize waste and maximize soil health. This practice can reduce the risk of nutrient leaching and runoff.
3. Precision Agriculture
Precision Agriculture uses advanced technology such as drones, sensors, and GPS to create detailed maps of crop health, moisture levels, and nutrient needs. This data can be used to make more informed decisions about crop management and soil health.
4. Regenerative Agriculture
Regenerative agriculture builds soil health and resilience through practices such as cover cropping, crop rotation, and reduced tillage. This can help sequester carbon, reduce erosion, and improve soil fertility.
Treat your soil like royalty, and reap the rewards! Are you ready to have your soil bring home the gold?
Soil Health Videos
Soil Health FAQs
A: Soil sampling is important because it helps to assess the nutrient content, pH levels, and other factors that affect plant growth. This information is essential for making informed decisions about fertilizer application, soil amendments, and crop selection.
A: The best time to take a soil sample is typically in the fall after harvest or in the spring before planting. This allows for ample time to receive the results and make any necessary adjustments before planting.
A: The depth of the soil sample depends on the crop being grown and the nutrients being tested for. In general, samples should be taken from the top 6-8 inches of soil for most crops, but deeper samples may be needed for crops with deep root systems or for testing soil structure.
A: The number of soil samples needed depends on the size of the field or garden and the variability of the soil. A general guideline is to take one sample for every 2-5 acres, but more samples may be needed for fields with varying soil types or management histories.
A: To take a soil sample, you will need a soil probe or auger, clean plastic bags, a permanent marker, and a soil testing form.
A: Soil samples should be collected from several locations within a field or garden and mixed together to create a composite sample. The composite sample should be air-dried, broken up, and placed in a clean plastic bag. The bag should be labeled with a permanent marker and stored in a cool, dry place until it can be sent for analysis.
A: Soil testing services are available from many state and county extension offices, as well as private soil testing labs. Check with your local extension office or search online for soil testing services in your area.
A: The cost of soil testing varies depending on the lab and the tests requested. Basic soil tests may cost as little as $10-$20, while more comprehensive tests can cost $100 or more.
A: Soil test results typically take 1-2 weeks, depending on the lab and the complexity of the tests requested.
A: Soil test results will typically provide recommendations for fertilizer application and soil amendments based on the nutrient content and pH levels of the soil. Your local extension office can help interpret the results and provide recommendations for management practices.
