One composite sample hides the problem
A single sample per land averages acid patches with good ones. Grid sampling shows where the land differs, which is exactly where lime and fertiliser should differ too.
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Services · Soil sampling & analysis
Soil sampling and analysis, interpreted independently.
A soil analysis is only as good as the sample behind it and the person reading it. We sample every land on a GPS grid, have it analysed by an accredited laboratory, and interpret the results without a product to sell.
Why it matters
Why sampling properly pays
The subsoil matters
Acidity and compaction below 150 mm hold roots back even when the topsoil looks fine. We sample 0–150 mm and 150–300 mm so you see both.
Same points, every season
GPS-logged points are resampled in the same place, so you can see whether pH, phosphorus and potassium actually moved after a correction.
Ratios, not only numbers
Base saturation and the balance between calcium, magnesium and potassium often explain a weak block better than any single element.
How we do it
Four steps, the same way every time.
1
Plan the grid
Grid density set by land size, history and crop, denser where the land is more variable.
2
Sample
Topsoil and subsoil at each GPS point, bagged and labelled to that point.
3
Analyse
Accredited laboratory analysis for pH, P, K, Ca, Mg, Na, acidity and micronutrients.
4
Interpret & map
Maps per element and depth, base saturation and ratios, with a recommendation per zone.
What you get back
What lands on your desk.
- Soil maps per element and depth, with the sample points behind them
- Interpretation of base saturation and the Ca:Mg:K balance
- Lime and gypsum recommendations per zone
- A variable-rate prescription file for the spreader, on request
- A resampling plan, so next season's results are comparable
Questions
Questions farmers ask us.
When is the best time to take soil samples?
Usually after harvest and before soil preparation or the next fertiliser application, so the results are in hand when decisions are made. For vines and orchards we often sample post-harvest or together with the leaf sample.
Why sample the subsoil as well?
Subsoil acidity and compaction limit how deep roots go, and they don't show in a topsoil sample. Lime takes years to move down, so it's worth knowing before you plan a correction.
Do you sell lime or fertiliser?
No. We're independent: we specify what's needed by nutrient and quantity, and you buy from whichever supplier you choose.
Do you work outside the Western Cape?
Yes. We're based in Durbanville and serve farmers all over the Western Cape, and nationally.
More from Integri Ag
Other services and the crops we work in.
Contact
Talk to an independent agronomist about soil sampling & analysis.
Evert Bergh, agronomist. Based in Durbanville, serving farmers across the Western Cape and nationally.