Soil Properties and Crop Production
We, at Matergenics, understand the crucial role soil plays in the production of crops for agriculture. Using GIS and on-site soil samples, our soil tests can determine the root cause of soil infertility. From there, recommendations can be made to alter the soil chemistry to maximize crop yield.
Overview of the soil properties Matergenics considers:
Physical Properties
Hydraulic Conductivity
Bulk Density
Soil Type
Biological Properties
Organic Matter Content
Bacteria Content
Chemical Properties
Soil pH
Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC)
GIS Soil Mapping for Agriculture
For studying areas of interest, GIS mapping is used to get an overview of the soil as a whole. It is also used to identify specific areas where soil fertility may be an issue based on the soil parameters mapped. Many of the physical, chemical, and biological properties can be mapped through our system.
Matergenics uses GIS mapping to determine the locations and frequency of soil samples to be taken over a study area. Typically, fewer samples are taken over areas with favorable,productive soil and more samples are taken
over less productive soil.
Soil samples are then sent to our lab for a more in-depth analysis.
Data are obtained from the NRCS’ SSURGO database. It provides us with the most detailed level of information available for resource management, county planning, etc.
Matergenics Soil Lab Analysis
An in-depth soil analysis is conducted at the Matergenics head office in Pittsburgh, PA using the soil samples taken in the field. The lab conducts tests on the following properties:
Density of Soil
Effective Porosity
Hydraulic Conductivity
Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC)
Extractable P, K, Ca, and Mg
Organic Matter Content
pH
Soil Salt Content (Sulfide, Sulfate, Chloride)
Total Bacteria Content
Soil Recommendations
Lab and GIS data are analyzed by our multidisciplinary team of soil specialists, NACE certified materials and corrosion engineers, chemists, and certified lab and field technicians to help you make informed decisions regarding soil alteration in order to maximize crop production.
Our soil recommendations are made based on your specific crop type and climate patterns associated with your area of interest.
