Standard Compost Test
Compost Test Package
Compost is a valuable organic material that enriches soil, promotes healthy plant growth, and improves overall soil structure. However, not all compost is created equal in terms of nutrient content and quality. To ensure your garden or farm receives the maximum benefits, it’s essential to understand the basic properties and maturity of your compost.
What’s Included in the Analysis:
This comprehensive test evaluates key properties of your compost, providing insights into:
| Moisture | pH | Bulk Density |
| Porosity | Salinity | Total Organic Matter - (LOI - Loss On Ignition) |
| Total Carbon | Organic Matter (Humus Fraction) | C:N Ratio |
| Solvita | Compost Maturity / Stability Index | Particle Size (5/8 and 3/8) |
How to Use the Compost Test Package:
Step 1: Collecting Compost Samples
- Take representative samples from various areas of your compost pile or bin to ensure accuracy.
- Avoid large debris and focus on the compost's inner core, where decomposition is most active.
Step 2: Preparing the Samples for Testing
- Air-dry the compost samples to remove excess moisture.
- Break down clumps to achieve a consistent sample texture.
- Place approximately 1 gallon of material in a Ziploc bag.
Step 3: Complete Necessary Paperwork
- Follow the instructions in your order email carefully.
- Fill out all relevant fields on the provided submittal form, ensuring accuracy.
Step 4: Ship Your Sample
- Securely package your compost sample and completed submittal form in the same box.
- Ensure the bag containing the sample is sealed tightly to prevent spills during transit.
- Send the package to the address indicated on the submittal form.
Additional Information:
- Minimum Sample Required: 1 gallon of compost.
- Turnaround Time: Results available within 5 to 7 business days.
Why Test Your Compost?
- Optimize Soil Fertility: Understand your compost’s nutrient content to maximize its benefits.
- Improve Plant Health: Ensure your compost is mature and stable, reducing the risk of nutrient imbalances or toxicity.
- Enhance Soil Structure: Evaluate key properties like porosity and organic matter to improve soil aeration and water retention.
Order your Compost Test Package today and take the guesswork out of composting. With accurate data, you can ensure your compost is a powerful tool for enriching your soil and boosting crop productivity!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are your business hours?
Our office is open Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. We do close for major holidays, so we recommend ordering your testing and sending your sample early if a holiday is coming up. You can always reach us by email. Just send us a message at info@tpslab.com
- When will I get my results?
We understand that you need your results as soon as possible. That is why we make sure to begin processing your samples as soon as they arrive at our laboratory. When the results are ready, we will email them to the email address you provided on your submittal form. The list below will give you an idea of our usual turnaround times.
Soil Tests: 5-7 Business days
Water Tests: 5 - 7 Business days
Plants Tests: 24 - 48 Hours
Compost Tests: 7 - 14 Business days
Fertilizer Tests: 3 - 5 Business days
Heavy Metals Test: 7 - 14 Business days
We offer a rush option for an additional 50% of the testing cost, but we would encourage you to give yourself time to test before you get to a point where a rush is needed.
