Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Reams Test
Ideal
Actual
Notes
Nitrates
40
15
Ammonia
40
6
Phosphorus
1:1 P:K
200
61
1:4 P:K
Potassium
100
241
10:1
Ca:Mg
2:1
Ca:Mg
Calcium
>2,000
451
Magnesium
14% Ca
280
219
Sodium
<70
6
Very Low
ERGS
200
75
Very Low
This kind of soil is typical of what I've seen in several different geographic regions. The
ratios may change, but the imbalances are common. Most nutrients are low. The calcium to
magnesium ratio is far too narrow and the phosphate to potash ratio is not only too narrow,
but actually the reverse of what it should be. ERGS is also low.
This soil has many problems that will take years to correct. The 3:1 calcium to magnesi-
um ratio on the base saturation test closely coincides with the 2:1 ratio on the Reams test.
These need to be widened. The soil could be lifeless because of chemical use, lack of water
or other reasons. Nitrogen will also be low due to this narrow calcium to magnesium ratio.
