pH Soil Sampling by
The Lime Company
Our Approach to Soil Sampling
Soil samples are taken systematically across the field, paying particular attention to the soil type, crop and soil condition. A small amount of soil is placed in a test tube, mixed with barium sulphate (which helps flocculation and precipitation of colloidal clay), de-ionised water and soil indicator solution. The colour of the solution is compared with a colour chart to give the correct pH reading. Our tests are truly 'in-field', avoiding the risk of mixing up samples during transport to a lab and allowing extra samples to be taken for immediate comparison. Test results are recorded on a field map so that any lime requirement can be accurately applied at the relevant rate.
A rough indication of acidic soil conditions can be seen in the growth of acid-loving weed species or patchy establishment and growth of crops but testing using pH solution is the most reliable method for accurate results to quickly identify problem areas and potentially lower yielding patches. A standard soil test from a laboratory will give P, K, Mg and pH results but these can be deceptive, as samples are dried and ground to protect analysis equipment, which gives a misleading pH result.
This has been recognised in the RB209 Fertiliser Manual: "On soils where acidity is known to occur, more frequent testing may be needed than the four-year cycle used for phosphate, potash and magnesium. Since acidity can occur in patches, spot testing with soil indicator across the field is often useful. Soil indicator can also be useful on soils which contain fragments of free lime, since these can give a misleadingly high pH when analysed following grinding in the laboratory."
pH Soil Testing by The Lime Company - Giving you Absolute Control
Comprehensive & Accurate Tests
Soil samples are taken systematically across the field, paying particular attention to the soil type, crop and soil condition and any specific areas of concern.
Immediate Results
A small amount of soil is placed in a test tube, mixed with barium sulphate (which helps flocculation and precipitation of colloidal clay), de-ionised water and soil indicator solution. The colour of the solution is compared with a colour chart to give the correct pH reading.
In-Field Testing
No mix up of samples during transport to the lab. Allows for extra samples to be taken for immediate comparison
Accurate Spreading Rates
Test results are recorded on a field map so that any lime requirement can be accurately applied at the relevant rate
Professional Service
A rough indication of acidic soil conditions can be seen in the growth of acid-loving weed species or patchy establishment and growth of crops but testing using pH solution is the most reliable method for accurate results to quickly identify problem areas and potentially lower yielding patches.
Recognised Practices
A standard soil test from a laboratory will give P, K, Mg and pH results but these can be deceptive, as samples are dried and ground to protect analysis equipment, which gives a misleading pH result. Really - only in-field testing provides comprehensive results leading to reliable Recommendaions
Once a lime requirement has been established, an accurate recommendation for the specific crop, rotation and target issue can be produced and the relevant product sourced, delivered and spread!