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NCAGR.GOV

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.

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

Standard fee per sample:

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

Extra tests available at $2 each:

  • Molybdenum (Mo)

*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 solution sample

Solution Sample Submission Form (Grower).
Solution Sample Submission Form (Researcher)
NCDA Sample ID Spreadsheet
Water Sampling for Nursery/Greenhouse Managers Handout
Water Sampling for Turf Managers Handout
How to Sample Solutions
Pour-Through Extraction Procedure (NCSU)

How to find & interpret my report

Report Search (PALS)
Sample Turnaround Times
Understanding the Solution Report
Solution Analysis (descriptive brochure)

Solution Sample Analysis Methodology NCDA&CS Solution Analysis Methods
Sample Containers Sample containers are not provided by NCDA&CS. Submit 12–16 oz of a representative sample in a plastic (not glass) bottle. Used beverage containers with the labels removed work great! Be sure to rinse the container prior to sample collection; do not use soap.
Other Useful References

List of Salt Tolerant Plants (from New Hanover County Extension)
Production Tools for Tobacco Growers
Solution Analysis for Tobacco Transplant Float Beds
Fertilizer and Alkalinity Calculator
NCSU Pond Management Guide

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Last Update November 3, 2017

 

NCDA&CS Agronomic Services Division, Colleen M. Hudak-Wise, Ph.D., Director
Mailing Address: 1040 Mail Service Center, Raleigh NC 27699-1040
Physical Address: 4300 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh NC 27607-6465
Phone: (919) 664-1600; FAX: (919) 733-2837



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