HELenic LAboratories
& Services of CHEMistry & Quality Management

The soil is the environment where the crops will grow, and it needs knowledge and care. Soil analysis will provide the information we need for soil suitability and improvement. Soil sampling is particularly important to do it correctly, as it significantly affects the correct display of laboratory results in the field.

The steps of correct sampling:

Before sampling:

  • We know the area of the field and the location, ie if it is on sloping ground, close to water (rivers, sea, etc.), close to other crops, close to roads and industries.
  • We supply: bags for samples weighing 0.5-1kg, marker, paper for indicating the sample elements, samplers or shovel.

During sampling

  • From each acre are taken 3-4 samples (models) from 0.5 kg. The shooting points cover the acre (zig-zag shots).
  • For an area of 5-6 acres we can join the models of the same depth that we have received from each acre. That is, make a pile (3-4 samples / acre x 5-6 acres x 0.5kg of soil / sample), mix the pile and create a homogeneous sample. This achieves a representative sample.
  • From the pile we put in a bag 0.5-1kg and note the details of the sample.
  • If the ground is steep or close to water, more than one sample may need to be taken. This depends on the uniformity of the soil and is controlled on site.
  • We are informed about the time we must do the sampling. From a field that has been uncultivated for a long time, sampling can be done before planting. For arable land, sampling is generally done before using fertilizers.
  • It is not preferable to take samples after prolonged rainfall, due to possible leaching of certain elements.
  • In soils where production problems occur in parts of the crop, separate samples should be taken from the healthy parts and the problem parts.
  • For vegetables and crops with a shallow root system, the sample to be taken is shallow (0-30cm deep). For tree crops, a sample at a depth of 30-60cm is additionally required.
  • The sampling points must be cleared of grass or roots.
  • We do not take samples of rubble or pits with waste.

After sampling:

  • The sample is sent to the soil laboratory of HELLASCHEM, with the details of the sample and the sender. The sample must be sent shortly after receipt (maximum 3-4 days).
  • The results are published by HELLASCHEM in two to five working days, depending on the desired analysis package
  • If a specific crop is selected or available, a fertilization proposal is given.
  • Always keep a "culture care diary", which records all data on cultivation from growth to fruiting and climatic data.

    In case you wish the sampling to be done by HELLASCHEM, contact us..
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