Acidity (pH)
The pH tells you how acidic the soil is. If the soil is too acidic, plants take up nutrients less well. You can raise the pH by liming.
What counts as a good pH depends on the soil type and the crop.
Organic matter
Organic matter is the part of the soil that consists of plant residues and soil life. It holds on to water and nutrients and is important for the soil structure.
The level changes slowly. A difference over several years therefore tells you more than a difference over one year.
Phosphate: P-CaCl2 and P-Al
For phosphate, the results often show two figures. P-CaCl2 is the phosphate that is directly available to the plant. P-Al says something about the reserve that becomes available in the longer term.
Together they give a picture of the phosphate status of your soil.
Potassium, magnesium and sulphur
Potassium is important for the growth and quality of the crop. Magnesium and sulphur are needed in smaller amounts.
A shortage can reduce the yield, even if everything else is in order.
Ratings and advice
Laboratories often add a rating to the figures, such as low, good or high. A fertiliser recommendation is often included as well.
Feel free to discuss that advice with your adviser. They know your farm and can translate the advice to your fields.
