Foliar analysis service – Packing and labelling samples

Packing and labelling samples

Shoots should be shaken if wet and then packed, even if moist, into polythene bags.

A label, made of durable material filled in with water resistant ink must be included with each sample detailing the:

• Name of the forest area
• Name of the compartment sampled
• Species
• Planting year.

Additionally:

• The box labelled “Treatment/Code” should be utilised to indicate whether the samples are from good or poor areas
• The box labelled “Block” can be used to sequentially number composite sets of samples from the same compartment.

The bag ofsamples from 5 trees should be rolled up with the label near the top and (readable from the outside). The roll should be secured with a moderately tight elastic band. The polythene bags should be neatly but loosely packed into a box.

All samples sent in must be accompanied (in each box) by a completed Plant Tissue Sample Form^(PDF-138K)filling all un-greyed parts and stating the name and address of the sender. All samples must be listed clearly on a copy(ies) of the form.

The weather in the fortnight prior to sampling should be recorded in a letter/note. The main concern would be prolonged periods of rain or drought before sampling as this could affect levels of nutrients in foliage.

Severe defoliation such as caused by Elatobium attack on Sitka spruce can affect foliage nutrient levels and so should be noted on the Site Record Form^(PDF-84K).

Fertiliser prescription is no longer offered.  We may be able to supply contact details of a person/company offering this service.

The deadline date for results must be completed, allowing as much time for laboratory analysis as possible, but the laboratory endeavours to achieve a 4 week turnaround.