Soil Sampling in Cumbria: what is it and why does it matter?
Our soil sampling services help you understand current levels of major and micronutrients in your soils. Analysis can be tailored to your requirements.
Cumbria’s unique farmland is a great starting point for soil analysis. When used with a nutrient management plan, sampling gives a full picture of fertiliser and organic manure needs while meeting environmental legislation and buyer protocols.
The Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) and Farming Rules for Water (FRfW) require soil sampling as the basis for decisions. Once test results come back, actions focus on improving soil health and nutrient availability.
Eco Prospects offers two sampling services: whole-field sampling and GPS precision sampling. Trained operatives follow field maps on an ATV with automatic samplers to ensure consistent depth and fast, representative cores.
Soil sampling: the critical step to getting the benefits of soil testing
What does our process look like?
We offer two approaches: whole-field composite testing and precision GPS testing.
Whole-field soil sampling
Using a W-shaped pattern across the field, we collect a minimum of 20 cores to produce an average for nutrients and pH across each field.
Samples are sent to UKAS-accredited laboratories for analysis, with test suites tailored to your farm. Results give clear insights into nutrient status and soil condition, supporting practical recommendations for lime, P & K and overall nutrient management.
Precision GPS soil sampling
Operators use GPS to plot precise sample points. By re-sampling the same points over time, you get a clear record of changes in nutrient distribution.
Field maps highlight highs and lows for key nutrients so you can target variable-rate lime and fertiliser, reduce waste and mitigate nutrient run-off. Each sample point comprises at least 16 cores for a reliable result.
Samples are analysed by a UKAS-accredited lab. The data is translated into clear, field-level recommendations for nutrient, lime and fertiliser management.
Expert soil sampling operators and advisers
Our team knows Cumbria’s varied farmed landscapes—from Carlisle and the Solway Plain to the Lake District and Eden Valley. Staff are trained in H&S, sampling protocols and GPS technology, and all work is risk-assessed.
Data is interpreted by FACTS-qualified advisers to ensure accurate, practical recommendations.
Talk to us
The combination of technology, thorough analysis, accredited lab testing and qualified people means we deliver precise, tailored soil and nutrient management for your farm.
Talk to us about soil and nutrient management, book a soil sampling visit, or ask for a sample report.
