Agronomic Services — Solution Analysis

Kristin A. Hicks, Ph.D., Section Chief
Kristin.hicks@ncagr.gov
(919) 664-1603

Don Edralin, Ph.D. Agronomist
don.edralin@ncagr.gov
919-664-1604

Solution analysis is useful for monitoring surface-water and groundwater quality for such varied agricultural purposes as irrigation, fertilization (nutrient solutions), livestock and poultry production, pesticide preparation, pond management and aquaculture.

Choose Your Tests

Standard Analysis: nitrate-nitrogen, ammonium-nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, zinc, manganese, copper, boron, sodium, chloride, aluminum, alkalinity, pH, electrical conductivity/soluble salts, and sodium absorption ratio.
In-State Grower Sample	$5.00 *
In-State Research Sample	$12.00 **
Out-of-State Grower or Research Sample	$25.00 **
Optional Tests
Molybdenum (Mo)	$2.00

* Samples qualify for the in-state rate if they originated in North Carolina.
**Research samples: additional form required. See “Submit a Sample” section.

Collect a Sample

Collect a Sample

Sample Turnaround Times
How to Sample Solutions
Water Sampling for Nursery & Greenhouse Managers
Water Sampling for Turf Managers
Pour-Through Extraction Procedure

Sample containers are not provided by NCDA&CS. Submit 12–16 oz of a representative sample in a plastic (not glass) bottle such as a used beverage container. Be sure to rinse the container prior to sample collection; do not use soap.

Submit a Sample

Submit a Sample

Solution Sample Submission Form (Grower).
Solution Sample Submission Form (Researcher)
NCDA Sample ID Spreadsheet
FAQs for Researchers

**Research samples require an Research Project Agreement prior to submission.

Find Your Report

Find Your Report

Once a report is released, you will receive an email notification with a link to your report on the PALS website. You may also search for your report online under your name at

Report Search (PALS)

How to retrieve your report on PALS - Video tutorial

Understand Your Report

Understand Your Report

Understanding the Solution Report
Solution Analysis (descriptive brochure)

Useful References

Useful References

NCDA&CS Solution Analysis Methods
Fertilizer and Alkalinity Calculator
NCSU Pond Management Guide
Production Tools for Tobacco Growers
Solution Analysis for Tobacco Transplant Float Beds
List of Salt Tolerant Plants

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Last Update April 20, 2023