Soil Science Analytical And Advisory Services

Landscape Packages: The results of the analyses listed in each of our Landscape Packages are presented in a full interpretative report which includes our opinion on the quality of the soil submitted. Clear and practical recommendations are given for soil handling and for the application of lime, fertiliser or organic amendments when required. If contamination is found, we can assess the risk posed to plant and human health and advise on appropriate management techniques.

It is normally assumed in our report that soils are to be used for general purpose landscaping. If requested however, we can tailor our report to give advice on the suitability of the soils analysed for particular end uses, such as sports pitches, woodlands or wild flowers etc.. Our service includes a detailed visual description of the sample for soil structure, consistency and colour. This is particularly useful as a visual check for different batches of soil delivered to site.

Other Testing Services: The analyses most commonly requested have been grouped together into Landscape Packages, each of which has a particular application. Not every analysis is covered by these packages and our laboratories are equipped to carry out a wide range of other analyses. We can respond to specific requests or even suggest packages to match the needs of a particular project.

Turnaround Times:

This service is subject to availability and carries an additional fee. Please call beforehand to discuss your requirements. Please note that if samples are exceptionally wet when received, or are delivered from outside the UK, an additional day may be required, but clients will be advised.

Amount of Sample Required: Approximately 1kg (or 2 kg if soils are very stony) of soil or 2 litres of compost is sufficient to carry out all the analyses. Sample containers are available on request. The samples should be representative of the bulk material, and a separate information sheet, giving guidance on soil sample collection procedures, is also available if required.

Sample Collection Service: CL Voelcker can arrange for a courier to collect samples from your premises or site office if required. Alternatively, our Soil Scientists are available to collect samples from site on the clients behalf. A fee will be charged according to the time required for travelling and fieldwork. Additional reporting charges will also apply when the Soil Scientist is required to examine ground or growing conditions on site.

Analysis of Soils From Outside the UK: CL Voelcker has a soil import licence, enabling us to legally receive foreign soils. Special procedures must be followed and clients should be aware that it is an offence to bring soil samples into the UK from outside Europe without a licence. Full details of the procedures which must be followed are available on request.

Different suites of tests will probably be required depending on the country of origin. Our Soil Scientists have between them nearly 10 years of overseas work experience in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. They can advise on which tests are required and can interpret the results with confidence. A small additional charge may be levied for some overseas samples as they require special handling and disposal procedures. If you intend to send samples from abroad, please contact us beforehand.