FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re a farmer, gardener, or industry professional, you’ll find clear, helpful information here to guide you through every step of the testing process. Use the buttons below to quickly navigate to the section you need.
General FAQs
How will my report be sent to me?
The soil test report is in a pdf format that will be emailed to you using the email address you provided when you submitted your sample. Excel reports can be arranged upon request.
Where can I go for more help?
Check out our knowledge hub on the website for more information or phone us 0800 100 668
Sample bags, what can I use?
ARL provides sample bags and prepaid courier bags to safely transport your samples from around New Zealand to the laboratory. Contact us to order
How long does it take for the Laboratory to analyse my samples?
From the day we receive your samples it usually takes 4-10 days to get your results to you, depending on the soil type and test requests.
What is the sample name and where do I get this?
Sample name is the unique term or name you give an individual sample, thus allowing you to know which sample is which when the sample report(s) are returned to you. For example, “rose bush” or “apple tree”.
Can I drop off the sample to the laboratory?
The lab is open for drop offs from 7am – 3.30pm Mon-Fri. We do not open on weekends or public holidays. See here for instructions on how to drop off a sample.
How do I collect my sample?
We have put a complete guide on how to sample in the knowledge hub section of the website.
What updates will I receive on my sample status?
Generally, the first update you will receive is the emailing of your sample analyses report(s).
Why have I not received my test results?
You may not have received your test due to a delay in sample delivery to our laboratory, your payment may not have been received, or a technological issue may have occurred holding up your results. Please ring or email us to find out if you are worried.
How do I read my test?
ARL have provided test terms and definitions that may help you understand the nutrients listed on our test results alongside optimum ranges for each nutrient. For more advice we recommend that you contact your local fertiliser representative, rural merchant supplies store or consultant.
Where do I find the bag number?
On the outside of the sample bags is a barcode and above this is a 9 digit number – please enter this into the bag number box.
SOIL FAQs
Why should I soil test?
Regular testing helps develop and maintain more productive soils for farming, gardening, and landscaping. Soil tests indicate whether plant nutrients are deficient and what amounts are needed for optimum growth. Soil testing is also a useful diagnostic tool to identify problems related to excessive levels of nutrients and salts, high pH, low organic matter, and poor drainage. When properly interpreted, soil tests increase profits in agricultural production systems and promote more favourable conditions for productive and attractive gardens and landscapes.
What is the best time to take a soil sample?
Regular testing helps develop and maintain more productive soils for farming, gardening, and landscaping. Soil tests indicate whether plant nutrients are deficient and what amounts are needed for optimum growth. Soil testing is also a useful diagnostic tool to identify problems related to excessive levels of nutrients and salts, high pH, low organic matter, and poor drainage. When properly interpreted, soil tests increase profits in agricultural production systems and promote more favourable conditions for productive and attractive gardens and landscapes.
Soil sampling can be done during the growing season to aid in diagnosing plant growth problems. Plant tissue sampling and analysis can also be used to monitor, diagnose poor growth and deficiencies.
How often do I soil test?
Every 2-3 years is generally enough.
What tests do I need?
Our most frequently used test is the pasture soil test. This test checks soil acidity and key nutrients essential for optimum pasture production including P, K and S. Have a look at the soil page on our website for all of the testing suites that we offer.
PLANT & FEED TESTING FAQs
Will a soil test help diagnose problems with my plants?
Problems with plants may be caused by factors other than soil fertility, e.g. disease, insects, insufficient light, soil moisture or compaction, or climatic conditions. An evaluation of soil fertility and pH is an important first step in diagnosing problems. If soil fertility is not found to be a problem, then the other factors affecting plant growth should be evaluated to determine possible causes.
When is the best time to test my feed?
We recommend testing feed just before you are planning to feed it to stock.
Why does my feed test show low results, but the product visually presents well?
There are lots of reasons why your feed test may show low results comparative to the ‘look and feel’ of the product. Reasons for low results include but are not limited to:
- Poor Sampling Technique
- Sample contamination
- Poor storage of sample
- Incorrect labelling of the sample for analysis
How much plant leaf sample do I need to supply for testing?
Each sample should be made up of 15 or more handfuls of pasture (collect using gloves to prevent contamination). This is approximately 2 litres for mixed pasture or ½ litre for a clover only sample.
Refer to the plant sampling guide for more information.
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