Soil & Manure Sampling & Analysis

Soil sampling is a legal obligation.

Farmers are required to have soil samples every five years and may be asked to provide the soil sampling results by the Environment Agency (EA) or Natural Resources Wales (NRW) in Wales as part of an inspection.

Soil and manure sampling and analysis can also contribute towards an accurate Nutrient Management Plan and, in turn, result in cost savings and efficiencies. If you have sampling and analysis with us, we will utilise the results as part of our Nutrient Management Planning service. The more accurate information that is analysed for a Nutrient Management Plan, the more accurate information and analysis will come out.

Insights from agronomists - specialists in agronomy, the science and practice of soil management and field crop production.

Be Reassured with 4R Reassurance

Our soil and manure sampling and soil analysis service includes the following:

✔ Comprehensive geotechnical soil testing and the latest technology in sampling, testing and analysis

✔ Analysis by an Independent United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) national quality guidelines (UKAS accredited)

✔ Qualified agronomists advice - on soil health, disease prevention and how to improve crop production and quality

✔ Specialists will convert raw data into meaningful information with data transformation

✔ Valuable insights provided with our agronomists’ interpretation

✔ Understand results with a meaningful context

✔ Results can be used to support a more accurate Nutrient Management Plan

The Reduction and Prevention of Agricultural Diffuse Pollution (England) Regulations 2018.

Applying organic manure and manufactured fertiliser to cultivated agricultural land

(1) When planning an application under regulation 4(1)(a) to cultivated agricultural land, a land manager must ensure that the results of soil sampling and analysis are taken into account.

(2) The results of the soil sampling and analysis—
(a) must include the pH of the soil and the levels of nitrogen, phosphorous, magnesium and potassium present,
(b) must be no more than five years old at the time of the application and
(c) This may have been collected before these Regulations came into force, including by another land manager.

(3) For paragraph (2)(a), nitrogen levels may be determined using assessment of the soil nitrogen supply rather than the sampling and analysis of soil.

(4) In this regulation, “cultivated agricultural land” means agricultural land which has been cultivated—
(a) by physical means (including ploughing, sowing or harvesting) at least once in the previous year, or
(b) by chemical means (including applying organic manure or manufactured fertiliser) at least once in the previous three years.

How Does Soil & Manure Sampling & Analysis Work?

We will visit the farm and collect samples, ensuring the latest sampling guidance is followed.
Samples will then be packaged and sent for analysis.
You will then be sent your analysis report with the option to add to a farm map for quick reference.
Specific agronomist’s advise on soil health, nutrients, disease prevention, and improving crop production and quality.

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Benefits of Soil Sampling and Soil Analysis

Soil and manure sampling are significant in farming as they enable farmers to evaluate the fertility, nutrient composition, and overall condition of their soil. This understanding empowers farmers to make well-informed choices regarding fertiliser application, crop selection, and irrigation management.

Soil sampling is vital in developing and executing an effective nutrient management plan for agricultural operations. By regularly assessing the soil's properties, farmers can optimise their farming practices, maximise crop yields, and promote sustainable land management. Soil sampling is a valuable tool in ensuring agricultural lands' long-term productivity and health.

Valuable Insights

Soil analysis comprehensively examines the soil sample to determine its chemical, physical, and biological properties. The study provides valuable information about the nutrient content, pH levels, organic matter content, soil texture, and other factors influencing soil health and fertility. Here are some key aspects of soil analysis.
Identifies Nutrient Content

Soil analysis reveals the levels of essential nutrients in the soil, including macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) and micronutrients (such as iron, zinc, and copper). The results indicate whether the soil has sufficient nutrient levels to support healthy plant growth or if supplementation is required.
Determines PH Levels

PH measures soil acidity or alkalinity and greatly influences nutrient availability to plants. Soil analysis determines the pH level, which helps farmers understand if the soil is acidic, neutral, or alkaline. Different crops have specific pH requirements, and soil amendments may be necessary to adjust the pH for optimal plant growth.
Measures Organic Matter Content

Organic matter plays a vital role in soil fertility, moisture retention, and overall soil health. Soil analysis measures the organic matter content, indicating the level of decomposition and the presence of beneficial microorganisms that contribute to nutrient cycling and soil structure.
Soil Texture

Soil analysis determines the soil texture, which refers to the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay particles in the soil. Soil texture influences water-holding capacity, drainage, and nutrient retention. Understanding the soil texture helps farmers make appropriate irrigation and nutrient management decisions.
Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC)

CEC is a measure of the soil's ability to retain and exchange cations (positively charged ions) like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Soil analysis provides CEC values, which help determine the soil's nutrient-holding capacity and the need for additional nutrient inputs.
Other Additional Parameters

Depending on the laboratory and the specific analysis requested, a soil analysis may include other parameters such as salinity, electrical conductivity (EC), heavy metal concentrations, and soil microbial activity. These additional parameters provide valuable insights into specific soil conditions and potential challenges.

How soil sampling is used within a Nutrient Management Plan

Here's how soil sampling is typically incorporated into such a Nutrient Management Plan:

Baseline Assessment: Soil sampling is conducted initially to establish a baseline assessment of the soil's nutrient content, pH levels, organic matter content, and other relevant properties. This helps identify any nutrient deficiencies or imbalances that may exist in the soil.
Nutrient Analysis: The collected soil samples are sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory determines the levels of essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients in the soil. This information forms the basis for making informed decisions regarding nutrient management.
Nutrient Recommendations: Based on the results of the soil analysis, nutrient recommendations can be developed. These recommendations specify the appropriate amount and type of fertilisers or soil amendments needed to optimise nutrient levels in the soil and meet the requirements of the crops to be grown.
Precision Application: Armed with nutrient recommendations, farmers can practice the precision application of fertilisers. Rather than applying a uniform amount of fertiliser across the entire field, the precision application allows farmers to apply fertilisers more strategically, targeting specific areas or zones that require higher or lower nutrient inputs. This approach reduces the risk of over-application and helps maximise fertiliser efficiency.
Monitoring and Adjustments: Soil sampling is an ongoing process within a nutrient management plan. Farmers typically conduct regular soil sampling at predetermined intervals, such as every three to five years, to monitor changes in nutrient levels over time. By comparing the current results with the baseline assessment, farmers can assess the effectiveness of their nutrient management practices and make necessary adjustments to optimise soil fertility.

By integrating soil sampling into a nutrient management plan, farmers can make informed decisions about fertiliser application, minimise nutrient imbalances or losses, reduce environmental impact, and maintain sustainable soil health for long-term productivity.