Soil Testing
Soil is the uppermost layer of the Earth’s crust and is the life support system that is biologically active with a porous texture. It serves as the reservoir of water and nutrients and a medium where injurious wastes get filtered and broken down. It is considered as one of the principal substrata of life that participates in the cycling of several elements in the ecosystem. The soil has undergone a thorough evolution through the process of weathering driven by climatic, topographic, geologic and biological factors.
Soil pollution refers to the presence of toxic chemicals or pollutants in the soil at concentrations that can harm the ecosystem and pose risks to human health. According to the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations, soil pollution is a global threat affecting regions across Asia, Europe, North Africa, and Eurasia. The FAO classifies soil pollution into two main categories:-
- Specific Pollution:- This type of pollution occurs when contaminants become localized to specific areas or sites. This often results from industrial activities, agricultural practices, or accidental spillage. Specific pollution can have a significant impact on the immediate environment.
- Widespread Pollution:- Widespread pollution refers to the contamination of soil over larger geographic areas, often as a result of atmospheric deposition, long-term agricultural practices, or the widespread use of certain chemicals or pesticides. It can have far-reaching ecological consequences and may affect multiple ecosystems and communities.
Specific pollution is usually caused in a small area due to household wastes in cities; waste from an old factory site, illegal dumps, sewage treatment plants and around roadways. In widespread soil pollution, the specific reason is difficult to identify. This might be caused due to the spread of pollutants in the ground, water and air systems cause serious impact on the environment and health.
Creative Analytical Lab & Consultants is NABL accredited and certified by MoEF&CC and have immense experience in testing soil samples from across the nation. Our experts and professionals are experienced and our laboratory is well equipped with high-quality instruments for conducting soil analyses and study.
The objectives of soil testing are:
- Evaluation of fertility of the soil of a district, state or country
- Estimation of available nutrients and the acidity and alkalinity of the soil
Fertility status of the soil is particularly helpful in fertility map that summarises available phosphorus, available nitrogen and available potassium in the soil. This fertility status is depicted as Low, Medium and high on fertility map which can be used for:
- Determination of nutrient requirement in deficient areas.
- Delineating areas that have an excess presence of nutrients (N, Pand K) or is deficient of nutrients.
- Study of changing patterns of the fertility of soil due to agricultural activities for a long period.
The four phases of a soil testing programme include:
- Soil sample collection
- Chemical analysis
- Interpretation of results
- Inference and recommendation
Soil Testing Involves:-
Analysis of Available Nutrients of Soil:- This is done through two types of testing – standard and broad-spectrum. In standard soil analysis, soil nutrients like Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Zinc, Boron and Sulphur are analysed. A broad-spectrum analysis involves testing of Iron, Calcium, Magnesium, Manganese and Copper in the soil. A broad spectrum of soil analysis provides a better and a nutrient management plan that is comprehensive.
Physico-Chemical Analysis: Soil pH and electrical conductivity are the parameters studied to understand the acidity and alkalinity of the soil and the salinity of the soil. This study indicates the status of the soil and what amendments are required before plantation or any other agricultural activity is carried out.
Biological Analysis: Estimating soil organic carbon (OC) is important to understand its impact on soil health and ecosystems. OC is a fundamental component of soil that directly affects soil microbial populations and nutrient cycling processes. Microorganisms in the soil eat organic matter, breaking it down and releasing nutrients needed for plant growth. Therefore, OC level serves as an indicator of microbial activity and nutrient availability potential. Additionally, OC assessment can help determine a soil's ability to retain moisture and resist erosion, making it a valuable tool for sustainable land management and agricultural practices.
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