The analysis of fertilizers and soil amendments is an important practice in agriculture and gardening to ensure efficient resource utilization and healthy plant growth. There are various analyses that can be performed on fertilizers, amendments, and the soil where they will be applied. Some of the most common types of analyses include:
1. Nutrient Content: determines the concentration of macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) and micronutrients (such as iron, zinc, manganese) in fertilizers.
2. Granulometry: evaluates the particle size in fertilizers, influencing their effectiveness and application.
1. Neutralization Content: determines the capacity of an amendment to neutralize soil acidity, usually expressed in terms of the relative neutralizing power (PRNT).
2. Nutritional Element Content: verifies the presence of elements like calcium, magnesium, and others in soil amendments.
3. Granulometry: assesses the particle size in amendments to determine their effectiveness in soil correction.
These analyses help farmers and gardeners make informed decisions about selecting fertilizers, amendments, and the quantity to be applied to optimize plant growth and soil health. It’s important to conduct soil analyses periodically according to crop needs and soil conditions to adjust management plans accordingly based on the results.
The analyses are conducted following the Official Analytical Methods Manual, and the laboratory is authorized to perform tests after accreditation by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Supply (MAPA).
References:
* Manual de métodos analíticos oficiais para fertilizantes e corretivos / Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento. Secretaria de Defesa Agropecuária. – Brasília : MAPA, 2017. 240 p.
