Soil Testing: From Filtration To Fertilizer To Food

Agricultural soil analysis provides information on chemical, physical and biological properties. This knowledge of soil characteristics, especially in terms of soil nutrients, enables planning of fertilizer programs that are accurate, efficient, and environmentally responsible.

There are many possible soil tests, able to report on a variety of soil features and properties. As much of a farmer’s soil analysis costs are incurred during sample collection and transportation, they are keen to get the most out of every sample sent for analysis. Laboratories therefore often perform a range of soil tests on each sample to maximize the farmer’s return on investment.

Soil testing laboratories themselves also need to operate cost effectively while maintaining accuracy and reliability. Efficient filtration plays a key part in this as a first step in sample preparation before analysis. A laboratory that can make sure it is using optimum filtration practices and materials can simplify soil testing workflows, provide accurate and reliable results, and maximize its profitability.