Soilless media can be tested Pre-plant (in bulk) or Post-plant (in container).
General Tips
- Collect a representative sample consisting of 5 to 10 subsamples.
- Thoroughly mix subsamples.
- Submit composite media sample in a clean, well-sealed plastic bag.
- Submit a minimum of one quart of media. Two quarts are preferable.
- For Diagnostic samples, submit both a Pre- and Post-plant media samples. Corresponding plant tissue and/or solution samples are strongly encouraged.
Tab/Accordion Items
- Collect subsamples of bulk (pre-plant) substrates from the center of individual bags or from random areas in the central part of the stockpile.
For accurate pH measurement, samples from dry substrates should be moistened before being sent to the lab.
- Collect subsamples from areas under the same set of conditions (i.e., plant species, stresses, appearance and management practices).
- Do not sample containers located on the edges of a bench or block.
- Do not collect media in the top or bottom inch of the container.
- Do not include roots in the sample.
To collect samples from small pots
Remove the root mass
Pinch edges of media from the middle of the root mass of several pots
This page was last modified on 12/11/2023