The viability of farming is dependent on the management decisions made by farmers, and one of the the most important factors is how the farmer grows and feeds his crops and livestock.
The Laboratory has established modern soil and feed analytical methods and has participated in the North American Proficiency Testing Program and the National Forage Testing Association for quality control and quality assurance. Lab recommendations are coordinated with the provincial laboratories in the Atlantic Provinces, Quebec and Ontario.
Sample Types
| SOIL | SOIL AMENDMENTS | PLANT TISSUE | FEED |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mineral Soil | Manure | Crop | Forage/Silage/Hay |
| organic Soil | Compost | Vegetable | Mill Feeds/ Animal Feed |
| Greenhouse Soil | Limestone | Fruit | Grain |
Types of Analysis
Soil
Soil pH, phosphate, potash, calcium and magnesium levels are measured in soil samples, assessed, and translated into a limestone and fertilizer recommendation for the crop specified.
Soil Amendments
For both manures and composts, the following analysis is performed: percent nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium, pH and dry matter/moisture content. In addition, percent carbon and soluble salts are analyzed for compost samples.
Plant Tissue
Percent nitrogen, phosphate, potash, calcium, magnesium and parts per million (ppm), iron, copper, manganese, zinc and boron are measured in tissue samples. Tissue Analysis is usually performed in conjunction with Soil Analysis to detect any potential deficiency which may be present in the plant.
Feed
The following analysis are performed on most feed samples: dry matter, pH (silages), crude protein, acid detergent fibre (ADF), total digestible nutrients (TDN), digestible and net energies, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorous. Other analysis, such as sodium, neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and crude fat content can also be carried out depending on the feed type.
The appropriate parameters are summarized and reported to the farmer, Agricultural Development Officer and the Regional Livestock Specialist, to assist the client in formulating their feeding program.
Soil, Plant and Feed Laboratory Costs1
Commercial Farmers
| Routine Soil Analysis | $9.00 + HST/sample |
|---|---|
| Routine Feed Analysis | $7.00 + HST/sample |
| Greenhouse Growth Media Analysis | $7.00 + HST/sample |
| Manure/Compost Analysis | $7.00 + HST/sample |
Home Gardeners
| Routine Soil Analysis | $20.00 + HST/sample |
|---|
Notes:
1No discount for multiple samples