Online Resources for Water, Media, and Tissue Testing

Compiled by L. Pundt, UConn Extension, 2023
Reviewed by Dr. Rosa Raudales, UConn, 2023

Here is a listing of commercial laboratories for media and tissue testing, and water testing for commercial greenhouse growers.

UConn Nutrient Analysis Laboratory

www.soiltest.uconn.edu
email: soiltest@uconn.edu
When submitting your samples, it is helpful to write “Greenhouse Sample” on your mailing envelope or call to let them know you will be sending samples for greenhouse testing. Typically, the UConn lab processes SME samples for commercial growers in 1 to 2 working days. See website for sampling directions and forms.

Water Testing

When was the last time you tested your water? As you know, alkalinity can be a major factor affecting pH changes in the growing media. With the drought, some growers have noticed increased levels of sodium and chloride from water tests this year.

Water tests are recommended for every water source in the farm and should be done at least once up to three times a year.

A standard analysis usually includes: pH, EC, and alkalinity (which you can think of as the dissolved limestone in water) as well as macro- and micronutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, B, Cl, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, and Zn) and sodium (Na).

Testing for macro and micronutrients should be done for each well at least once a year.

Sampling Procedure

  1. Allow the water to run for 5 minutes to clear the line.
  2. Rinse a clean plastic 16 oz. container 2 to 3 times with the water to be tested.
  3. Fill the container completely and cap tightly.
  4. Label bottle with your name, address, and type of analysis requested.
  5. Mail the sample within 24 hours.

Here is a Partial List of Water Testing Laboratories

(for greenhouse water samples used by some growers)

QAL (Quality Analytical Laboratories)

JR Peters, Inc

Ag Source Laboratories

SunGro Horticulture

For testing for agrochemical residues such as plant growth regulators and herbicides:

Waters Agricultural Laboratories, Inc.

 

Disclaimer for Fact Sheets: The information in this document is for educational purposes only. The recommendations contained are based on the best available knowledge at the time of publication. Any reference to commercial products, trade or brand names is for information only, and no endorsement or approval is intended. UConn Extension does not guarantee or warrant the standard of any product referenced or imply approval of the product to the exclusion of others which also may be available. The University of Connecticut, UConn Extension, College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources is an equal opportunity program provider and employer.