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The University of Missouri Soil & Plant Testing Laboratory in Columbia now provides manure analysis to clients. Manure is a valuable source of nutrients for crops and improves soil productivity. Manure testing is necessary to make optimum use of manure while protecting water resources. Manure analysis is strongly recommended to help farmers know the value of manure applied to their crops in place of commercial fertilizer. Using manure in place of commercial fertilizer often results in increased crop yields, but accurate analysis of the manure is crucial. The analysis techniques offered at the MU Columbia lab are designed for accuracy and rapid turn-around of results to our clientele. You can submit samples direct to the lab. The samples should be accompanied by a duly filled sample information form that can be obtained by contacting the lab, or via the lab's Website http://soilplantlab.missouri.edu/soil.

Soil and Plant Testing Laboratory
University of Missouri-Columbia
23 Mumford Hall
Columbia, MO 65211
Tel: 573-882-0623 Fax: 573-884-4288
Email: soiltestingservices@missouri.edu
Web: http://soilplantlab.missouri.edu/soil

The lab offers Soil Testing, Plant Analysis, Manure, Compost, Greenhouse Media, Water Testing and Special Tests.

Tests offered and fees
Complete manure analysis (Total nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, ammonium-nitrogen, pH, electrical conductivity and percent moisture) $ 40.00.

Total nutrients analysis (Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and percent moisture $22.00.

For additional tests and fees refer to the sample information form or visit the lab's Website at: http://soilplantlab.missouri.edu/soil

Guidelines for submitting samples
Obtaining a representative manure sample from each storage area is critical to getting accurate test results. The basic guideline is to collect multiple samples, mix them together and make a composite sample. Submit at least one pint of the material to the lab for analysis.

Taking a representative sample
Obtain samples from at least 10 different places and/or depths to make the composite sample. In the case of poultry litter, sample to the bottom of the litter. If possible, agitate the liquids before collecting the sample.

Submitting dry samples
Submit one quart of dry manure in a Ziploc bag, squeeze excess air from the bag and seal it. Complete the manure testing sample information form and make sure to write your sample number or ID on the bag and mail it to the lab.

Submitting wet samples
Submit one pint of liquid manure in a plastic container. Do not fill the container. Make sure to leave at least one third free space and tighten the cap securely. Complete the manure testing sample information form and write your sample number or ID on the container with permanent ink and mail it to the lab.

Each sample submitted to our lab should be accompanied by a sample information form. When submitting a sample to the lab the sample information form should be filled out accurately and completely.

Include a check for the amount due payable to "MU Soil Testing."

Turnaround time for samples is five to seven working days after samples are received by the lab. So plan ahead and submit samples in time.

Manjula V. Nathan, Director, MU Soil
Testing and Plant Diagnostic Service Laboratories
NathanM@missouri.edu