Provision for DAERA Soil Analysis Service Continues

April 24, 2020

Following the closure of the DAERA Direct offices for face to face enquiries due to COVID 19 restrictions, farmers wishing to send soil samples for testing can still do so by contacting NRM Laboratories Customer Services directly on 01344 886338. NRM will send out a testing kit including a postage paid return envelope, please note there will be an increased charge for this service.

Farmers are reminded of the importance of having a valid soil analysis. It is now a cross-compliance requirement to have a soil analysis to determine crop need if applying chemical phosphate fertiliser, high P manures (such as layer litter) or anaerobic digestate. Soil sampling should be carried out on a regular basis, at least once every four years and prior to the application of any fertilisers or manures.

The CAFRE Crop Nutrient Calculator which is free to use and available through DAERA online services, can be used to record soil nutrient status, will calculate crop nutrient requirements and the supply of nutrients from fertilisers and manures and can be used to produce a fertilisation plan.