New diagnostic soil test identifies functional microbes ahead of crop input planning

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A&L Canada Laboratories Inc. is expanding its diagnostic tool offering with the addition of a soil microbe test, VitTellus BioSM.

The test quantifies soil microbial populations that have been shown to improve soil health and greater crop productivity, the company says.

VitTellus BioSM utilizes selective carbon sources to measure the concentration of specific functional microbial groups within a soil sample, including microbes with the capability to fixate nitrogen with plants or on their own, as an example.

A&L says that VitTellus BioSM is an additional analysis to the VitTellus Soil Health test, a test used to make more informed decisions on application of nutrients, and for managing and improving soil health.

Unlike traditional soil tests that measure the chemical properties of soil, this new test quantifies the physical and biological interactions in soil and assesses different soil parameters.

“VitTellus BioSM Soil Health … allows clients to understand their current soil microbial populations and take concrete actions to cultivate microbes which support healthier soils, stronger plants and greater returns for the farmer, and society. This is a worthwhile, long view endeavor, we strongly encourage farmers to truly get to know their soils for their longstanding success,” says Greg Patterson, CCA, founder and CEO of A&L.

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