What is Cation exchange capacity (CEC)

What is Cation exchange capacity (CEC) in soil Cation exchange capacity (CEC) is a fundamental soil property that measures the soil’s ability to hold and exchange positively charged ions, called cations. It is a crucial indicator of soil fertility and plays a significant role in nutrient availability for plant growth. Key aspects of CEC Definition: […]

How to obtain a soil sample

How to take a Soil Sample Collect samples from within the one soil type that have similar history of use. Avoid recently fertilised areas, manure and urine patches, old fence lines, old animal pens and old building sites. Make sure your sampling tool is clean and rust free, and clean gloves are worn to reduce […]

 Soil Types and Soil Texture (DIY Soil Test)

 Soil Types and Soil Texture (DIY Soil Test) Soil Type and Texture: A High-Level Description Soil Type: Refers to the broad categories of soil based on their composition and properties, such as sand, clay, silt, loam, peat, and chalk. Each type has distinct characteristics affecting plant growth and soil management. Soil Texture: Describes the proportion […]

The Vital Role of Soil: Human Health and Environmental Well-being.

The Vital Role of Soil: Human Health and Environmental Well-being Soil is an indispensable natural resource, underpinning both human health and the stability of our environment. Its role extends far beyond a simple growing medium; it’s a complex, dynamic ecosystem crucial for food production, water regulation, climate stability, and biodiversity. Understanding its importance and adopting […]

What is a Soil Mineral Test?

A soil test is the analysis of a soil sample to determine the mineral and nutrient content, composition, and other characteristics such as the pH level. A soil test determines the fertility or the expected growth potential of the soil which indicates nutrient deficiencies. Soils are tested for pH Level, Organic Matter and the primary nutrients Phosphorus (P), Potassium […]

What is Soil Microbiology?

Soil Microbiology is the study of the microorganisms in the soil. What are their functions, and how do they affect the soil properties?   The Different Types of Soil Microbes? There are five different types of soil microbes: bacteria, actinomycetes, fungi, protozoa and nematodes. Each of these microbe types has a different job to boost […]

What is a Soil Biology Report?

  A Soil Biology report is qualitative assessment of your soil sample provides an indication of the microbiology living in your soil. Our reports provide the levels of microorganisms observed as well as photographs from the sample viewed under the microscope   Quantitative assessments report the numbers of bacteria, fungi, protozoa and nematodes present allowing recommendations for specific remedial actions to be made. Soil Microbiology