Sampling Procedures for Greenhouse Analysis
Container Media Sampling
Established Plants
- Collect a representative sample of the Crop media by combining 5
to 10 subsamples into a single sample bag.
- Exculde the top 1/2 inch of media, but otherwise sample from the
top to the bottom of the pot.
- Submit about 2 cups of media for Spurway analysis; for SME a quart
is better.
- Problem areas should be sampled separately.
- For best results, follow the same procedure each time you sample
so results can be compared and trends established.
New Media
- Place the sample in a pot and water until drainage occurs.
- When drainage stops, place the sample in a bag and submit to lab.
Irrigation and Fertilizer Water Sampling
- Allow the water to run for 5 mins to clear the lines.
- Rinse a clean plastic bottle several times with the water/fertilizer
to be tested.
- Fill the bottle with approximately 1 pint (2 cups) of water and securely
cap.
- Clearly label the bottle.
Plant Samples for Greenhouses and Nurseries
Plant analysis is available for commercial customers.
- Submitt about one full cup of plant tissue if possible.
- Avoid dusty or contaminated samples.
- If necessary, wash gently with demineralized water to remove contaminants;
DO NOT wash dried tissue.
- Place tissue in a loose fitting paper or cloth bag; refrigerate samples
stored in plastic bags.
Samples should be submitted with a Diagnostic Plant Analysis Request
Form (a .PDF File).
For questions about sampling instructions and interpretations call
the appropriate U of M Extension Specialist:
- Floriculture Plants: (612) 624-9703
- Horticultural Vegetable or Fruit: (612) 625-8114
- Nursery Trees and Shrubs: 612) 624-7432
- Agronomic Plants: (612) 625-6210 or (612) 625-1772
Soil Testing Lab, Rm. 135 Crops Research Bldg.,
1902 Dudley Ave, St Paul, MN 55108-6089
Email: soiltest@umn.edu,
Phone: 612 625-3101, FAX: 612 624-3420
Last updated:
October 22, 2007
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