Natru-tech Root Zone Survey

The Natru-tech Root Zone Survey is a process by which elements (phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, sulphur, manganese, boron, iron copper and zinc) are measured for their "plant available" content within the sample. The quantity of available nutrients in the sample determines the exact amount of fertiliser and amendments necessary. The Natru-tech Root Zone Survey also measures soil pH, humic matter and exchangeable acidity. These analyses indicate whether lime is needed and, if so, the amount and type of lime required.

Maintaining pH

pH measurement is only an indication of acidity or alkalinity. Therefore the Natru-tech Root Zone Survey looks at the balances on the exchange sites in detail so we can adjust the ratio between the cations to suit the needs of the grass on any given area.

Soil testing is crucial to determine plant nutrient availability and the pH value (acidity or alkalinity) of the soil for lawns, flowers, shrubs, and vegetable gardens. The Natru-tech Soil Test Report will recommend nutrients necessary to obtain optimum soil fertility and help guard against waste and harmful nutrient imbalances associated with over-fertilisation.

Cation exchange

CEC stands for "cation exchange capacity." It is a relative measure of the soil's capacity to hold positively charged nutrients, such as potassium (K+), calcium (Ca++), magnesium (Mg++) and hydrogen (H+). As this value increases, the capacity of a soil to hold nutrients also increases.

Cation exchange is the process whereby grass roots absorb many of the nutrients essential for healthy growth. Grass roots effectively “trade” positively charged hydrogen ions for the cations which are calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium and trace elements. As the grass absorbs 70% of the cations through the cation exchange process. Imbalances on the clay colloids or base prevent the roots from obtaining balanced uptake of vital nutrients. The following soils are listed in order of lowest to highest CEC values

• Sands
• Sandy loams
• Sandy clay loams
• Clay loams
• Organic matter

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