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What Soil Test Do I Need?

Have you found yourself asking, what soil test do I need? Soil tests are utilised in many ways, and there are a variety of different types of soil test available depending on what you need one for. Soil tests are predominantly used within three different contexts – for agricultural or horticultural works, on a construction site or in the case of waste removal.

Agricultural or Horticultural Soil Tests

 

In an agricultural or horticultural setting, a soil test is used to estimate the concentration of the nutrients in the ground. The composition and characteristics of the soil (such as its pH) and the fertility of the soil – which is the expected potential for growth.

A soil test will also identify whether there are any nutrient deficiencies or any contaminants in the soil. Such as lead, arsenic, barium, copper, lead, mercury and zinc.

By identifying these factors, the soil test results can be used to calculate the amount and type of fertiliser used on an agricultural site. As well as to help identify which crops would thrive in a particular garden.

Construction Related Soil Tests

 

A soil test can be used on a construction site to determine whether the soil can accommodate the construction project being undertaken. In this case, the density, strength, sand content, compaction, and organic content. Any contamination will be identified to assess how these factors may impact on the construction project. Results from the soil tests may also be used for reports that would support the development’s planning application.

There are two different approaches to soil tests on a construction site – in situ tests, which are conducted on the site itself, and laboratory tests. The in situ tests can be used to gather information on the properties and classification of the soil. Including the grain size, tip and shear resistance analysis, shear strengths and groundwater pressure. Alternatively, a laboratory test can examine the soil shrinkage, the soils suitability as a subgrade for a road, its hydraulic conductivity and the level of water content. The soils response to vertically applied pressure can also be tested, which is key when building foundations or basement rooms.

 

Waste Removal Soil Tests

 

Before waste soil can be taken to a landfill site, a number of tests must be carried out. These include the Waste Classification test, which identifies whether the soil is hazardous or non-hazardous. Following the completion of the Waste Classification test, the Waste Acceptance Criteria test must also be completed. A Waste Acceptance Criteria test determines whether the waste can be sent to a landfill that accepts inert waste, non-hazardous waste or whether it must go to a hazardous landfill site. You can find out more information about a Waste Acceptance Criteria test in our dedicated article.

What Soil Test Do I Need

 

Soil tests are incredibly useful in all sorts of contexts and can help to keep development projects running smoothly and ensure that gardens thrive.

ProHort Ltd provide a range of soil tests, depending upon your requirements. Why not find out more on our Soil Tests and Analysis page.