Soil Analysis. Handbook Of Reference Methods, Edition 1999

For more than 30 years, soil testing has been widely used as a basis for determining lime and fertilizer needs. Today, a number of procedures are used for determining everything from soil pH and lime requirements to the level of extractable nutrient elements. As the number of cropped fields being tested increases, more and more farmers and growers will come to rely on soil analysis results to manage the fertility status of their soils. However, if soil testing is to, be an effective means of evaluating the fertility status, standardization of methodology is essential. No single analysis procedure has been found to be appropriate for all soils. Compiled by the Soil and Plant Analysis Council, this latest edition of " Soil Analysis Handbook of Reference Methods " is a standard laboratory technique manual for the most commonly used soil analysis procedures. First published in 1974, the Handbook has changed over the years to reflect evolving needs. New analysis methods and modifications have been added, as well as new sections on sampling and sample preparation and methods of instrumental analysis, and nitrate-and ammonium-nitrogen, chloride, sulfate-sulfur, and heavy metal determination procedures. For soil scientists and analysts, farmers, growers, or anyone with an interest in the environment, this reference handbook will prove an invaluable guide to standard methods for soil analysis into the future. Provides a complete description of many different soil analysis procedures and interpreting data for most of these procedures. Places those selected procedures of soil analysis into a standard format and documents the ramifications of each procedure. Includes sections on soil sampling and preparation, instrumental techniques of analysis, methods for the determination of nitrate-and ammonium-nitrogen, chloride, sulfate-sulfur, and heavy metals. Lists historical reference texts and manuals on soil analysis procedures.