The Ohio State University's Research-Extension Analytical Laboratory (REAL) is an educational service testing laboratory which is broad-based in its analytical scope. Frequent chemical analyses of various materials make REAL an important management tool for growers of plants and animals. The REAL is a major component in the educational network. Clientele of the laboratory learn first-hand of the level of nutrients in their soil, soilless media, plants, feeds, and waste materials by directly using various production and environmental testing programs through the services of the laboratory. The REAL networks with The Ohio State University's researchers and extension specialists. This network provides valuable information directly to the grower while allowing feedback of problems that require further study.
There are seven divisions that make up the laboratory. These are soil testing, soilless mix testing, plant tissue and feed testing, manure and sewage sludge testing, compost testing, water and nutrient solution testing, and special sample testing. The tests that are most important to flower growers are those for soilless mix, water, and nutrient solutions. Hundreds of soilless mix samples used to grow various flowers such as poinsettia, geraniums, snap dragons, Easter lily, chrysanthemum and many others are tested in the laboratory each year. The standard soilless mix tests consists of pH, soluble salts, nitrate-nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Tests for micronutrient concentrations are also available. Fertility recommendations are printed if the "Type of Planting" is provided on the information sheet which should accompany the sample.
Sample kits can be obtained directly from the REAL. Obtain the correct kit for the kind of material to be tested. Sample kits contain an information sheet that must be filled out before the tests can be started. The sample can be send directly to the REAL. A listing of test fees and additional information can be obtained by directly contacting the laboratory via telephone at (330) 263- 3760. A description of the REAL can also be found on the REAL home page on the World Wide Web at:
