No one can underestimate the importance of soil testing. This type of testing matters a lot in the field of engineering, farming and construction among other sectors. Soil testing is a minor step in the bigger soil analysis process. A single element or several elements can be tested during the process in order to arrive at certain conclusions. This process is also a very important step during engineering or ecological investigations. Here are facts regarding Southern California soil testing.
It is a popular activity in the agricultural sector and helps to estimate the level of certain nutrient concentration in the topsoil. It is important in establishing the pH level of the topsoil. This test is important because it helps estimate the projected hypothetical growth and fertility of the topsoil. Topsoil testing helps a farmer to know if the topsoil they plan to farm is toxic due to use of excess fertilizer, has nutrient deficiency or if it has no trace of any essential minerals.
It is important to understand that topsoil chemistry changes with time, as chemical and biological processes combine or break down compounds. This is the reason why the testing must be done as soon as possible. The chemical and biological processes change when the topsoil is extracted from its natural environment and ecosystem. If the analysis is delayed the accuracy of the results deteriorates significantly.
The chemical and biological changes can be slowed down by freezing topsoil during storage or transportation. Drying the soil in the air can also preserve its freshness for several days. The analysis is done at state owned or private commercial labs which offer a wide range of tests. Each test targets specific groups of minerals or compounds. The results together with recommendations are then sent back to the concerned party.
There are individuals who believe that sending their samples to labs that are far will guarantee accurate results. Any lab can do the analysis as long as it has the necessary equipment. Local labs can help an individual reduce expenses. One is also able to give the topsoil while it is fresh. Local labs also give more accurate results since they are familiar with the topsoil chemistry of the area.
Local laboratories have higher chances of providing accurate results considering the fact they are familiar with the chemistry of local soils. As such, technicians from local labs will be able to conduct tests that will reveal further useful information. The tests normally involve checking for secondary, minor, and major nutrients. Phosphorus, potassium and nitrogen are the major nutrients.
Each process has its initial step. In this case, sample collection is the first step in topsoil analysis. The samples are packaged and delivered in special mail kits in some states. A fertilizer recommendation report and a composition report are sent back to the farmer when the testing is meant for agricultural use. Results from do-it-yourself kits are not as much accurate as those from laboratories.
Topsoil can also be contaminated. The common contaminants are in form of minerals like zinc, lead, copper, barium, arsenic and mercury among others. The most dangerous contaminant is lead. Everybody including pregnant women and children should avoid soils with lead levels above 300 ppm. This mineral causes severe health problems in people and animals.
It is a popular activity in the agricultural sector and helps to estimate the level of certain nutrient concentration in the topsoil. It is important in establishing the pH level of the topsoil. This test is important because it helps estimate the projected hypothetical growth and fertility of the topsoil. Topsoil testing helps a farmer to know if the topsoil they plan to farm is toxic due to use of excess fertilizer, has nutrient deficiency or if it has no trace of any essential minerals.
It is important to understand that topsoil chemistry changes with time, as chemical and biological processes combine or break down compounds. This is the reason why the testing must be done as soon as possible. The chemical and biological processes change when the topsoil is extracted from its natural environment and ecosystem. If the analysis is delayed the accuracy of the results deteriorates significantly.
The chemical and biological changes can be slowed down by freezing topsoil during storage or transportation. Drying the soil in the air can also preserve its freshness for several days. The analysis is done at state owned or private commercial labs which offer a wide range of tests. Each test targets specific groups of minerals or compounds. The results together with recommendations are then sent back to the concerned party.
There are individuals who believe that sending their samples to labs that are far will guarantee accurate results. Any lab can do the analysis as long as it has the necessary equipment. Local labs can help an individual reduce expenses. One is also able to give the topsoil while it is fresh. Local labs also give more accurate results since they are familiar with the topsoil chemistry of the area.
Local laboratories have higher chances of providing accurate results considering the fact they are familiar with the chemistry of local soils. As such, technicians from local labs will be able to conduct tests that will reveal further useful information. The tests normally involve checking for secondary, minor, and major nutrients. Phosphorus, potassium and nitrogen are the major nutrients.
Each process has its initial step. In this case, sample collection is the first step in topsoil analysis. The samples are packaged and delivered in special mail kits in some states. A fertilizer recommendation report and a composition report are sent back to the farmer when the testing is meant for agricultural use. Results from do-it-yourself kits are not as much accurate as those from laboratories.
Topsoil can also be contaminated. The common contaminants are in form of minerals like zinc, lead, copper, barium, arsenic and mercury among others. The most dangerous contaminant is lead. Everybody including pregnant women and children should avoid soils with lead levels above 300 ppm. This mineral causes severe health problems in people and animals.
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You can find a summary of the advantages you get when you use Southern California soil testing services at http://www.advancedgeotechnical.com right now.
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