Agronomic Services — Soilless Media Analysis

Kristin A. Hicks, Ph.D., section chief

Media analysis (using the saturated media extract procedure) helps growers fine-tune their fertilization programs for container crops grown in soilless media by enabling them to monitor changes in electrical conductivity, pH and nutrient levels.

Standard analysis includes: nitrate-nitrogen, ammonium-nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, zinc, manganese, copper, boron, sodium, chloride, aluminum, pH, electrical conductivity/soluble salts.

Standard fee per sample:

NC* growers $5
NC* researchers $12
Non-NC growers or researchers $25

Extra tests may be added to the standard analysis for an additonal fee:

Molybdenum (Mo) - $2
Bulk Density (BD) - $10

*Samples qualify for the in-state rate if they originated in North Carolina. Research samples require an annual research agreement prior to submission. All research samples receive a 10% analysis recheck for quality control at no added cost.

How to collect & submit a soilless media sample	Soilless Media Sample Submission Form (Grower) Soilless Media Sample Submission Form (Research) Soilless Media Analysis Guide NCDA Sample ID Spreadsheet Bulk Density Testing for Nursery & Greenhouse Managers Water and Media Testing for Greenhouse Managers
How to find & interpret my report	Report Search (PALS) Sample Turnaround Times Understanding the Soilless Media Report
Soilless Media Sample Analysis	NCDA&CS Soilless Media Methods
Sample Containers	Sample containers are not provided by NCDA&CS. Submit 1–2 quarts of a representative sample in a sealed plastic bag.

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Last Update July 9, 2020