Q. What services do the Soil and Irrigation Water Laboratory provide?

R. The services provided are the physico-chemical testing of soil and irrigation water to farmers and to the general public. For further details please visit the services section of our website.

Q. How can I submit a sample to the Laboratory?

R. The samples are brought to the reception of the Chemistry Laboratory between Monday and Friday from 7:00 to 15:30 (winter) and 7:00 to 13:00 (summer). In Gozo, samples can be handed in at the government farm in Xewkija. It is important that when samples are submitted, details of the person are forwarded to the Laboratory officials correctly, especially when one comes on behalf of another person. The details should include the name and surname of the person, address, ID number and the reference of the soil sample.

Q. How can I collect a soil sample?

R. A soil sample is collected from a depth ranging between 0 and 15cm. Various samples are collected in the form of a W from the field and placed into a bucket. The soil must then be thoroughly mixed to obtain one homogeneous sample that is representative of the field. About 1kg of the mixed soil sample is then placed into a clean plastic bag.

Q. How can I collect a water sample?

R. To avoid contamination always use a clean container or a container that has been rinsed with the water being collected before the actual sample is taken. A sample of at least 500ml is required.

Q. What type of diagnosis is made on water samples?

R. The Soil and Irrigation Water Laboratory carries out determination of soluble salts and much attention is given to diagnosis of salinity. This applies only for water meant for irrigation purposes. One can also benefit from a water classification according to salinity-related criteria. However, the response obtained from water having a given set of characteristics may vary greatly depending on the soil type, irrigation methods utilised and the weather conditions.