We should know about the soil in which we want to produce our crops. Soils differ in physical/chemical makeup, based primarily on parent material, physiography climate(rainfall) and land use. We should note also that several factors can influence how a plant receives nutrients from the soil. The soil's fertility level, temperature, compaction and moisture, along with fertilizer application are a few of these factors.
When is the best time to take soil samples:Soil samples may be taken at anytime during the year. It is important to take samples at approximately the same time during the year that the first set of samples were taken.
- It is best taken at or before land preparation.
- It is advised also to test the soil after harvesting.
- Test your soil when there is an outbreak of insects or diseases.
- Test soil when the amount and type of fertilizer required is not known by farmer.
- When a batch of potting mixture is prepared.
Water, apart from its H2O constituent, also contain dissolved elements and compounds that can prove beneficial or detrimental to the soil's growth. These other elements in water should be identified and managed to guarantee good crop yield.
Remember these tips when collecting a water sample:- Use a clean plastic container to collect sample (Do not use containers which stored chemicals).
- Do not expose the container to heat as this can alter the biological content of the water.
- It is advised that you carry the sample directly to the lab after collecting it to ensure the integrity of the sample.
Pointers for collecting a plant tissue sample:
- Use a clean plastic container to collect sample (Do not use containers which stored chemicals).
- Do not expose the container to heat.
- It is advised that you wrap the sample in a slightly dampened medium, e.g. tissue.
- It is advised that you carry the sample directly to the lab after collecting it to ensure the integrity of the sample.
We therefore encourage you to contact the RPPD Laboratory to give further guidance.
| Benefits of Soil, Plant and Water Analysis |
|---|
| Soil Analysis |
| - Determines the soil ph level. |
| - Determines the nutrient status of soil. |
| - Identifies nutrient related problems that occurs during the growing season. |
| - Monitoring of crop growth and crop quality. |
| - Aid in determining what crop is best suited to be grown in a particular soil type. |
| - To know the nutrient status of substrate used in a greenhouse environment. |
| - Aid in determining the type and quantity of fertilizer needed to meet nutrient requirements of crop. |
| - To save money by using fertilizer only when required. |
| Plant Analysis |
| - Plant analysis confirms a deficiency that can be visibly seen. |
| - It improves the yield goals and fertilizer needs of future crops. |
| - It reveals hidden nutrient stresses that the plant may be going through. |
| - It helps the farmer to understand the nutrient needs of his crops as well as its nutrient status. |
| - It helps the farmer to see how well the plant receives the nutrients from the soil. |
| Water Analysis |
| - To observe the effects of water on soil quality and crop production. |
| - Water quality can affect fertility needs. |
For more information, contact the Rural Physical Planning Division, Telephone 1-876-927-0441.
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