The Cornell Nutrient Analysis Laboratory (CNAL) provides a wide-range of analyses for environmental and biological samples using state-of-the-art analytical equipment and techniques.
Our clientele includes researchers, Extension educators, state and federal agencies, crop consultants, farmers, home gardeners, and others across New York, the nation, and the world.
Read more about our tests.
Cornell University's research-based nutrient guidelines for both soil and plant tissue (tree- and small-fruit leaf and grape petiole) are available through Agro-One Services. If you wish to receive fertilizer recommendations, please submit your soil or plant tissue samples and payment directly to Agro-One.
Agro-One will honor previously purchased Cornell soil test bags. But these bags are no longer for sale.
Please visit the Agro-One website to learn more about their services, sampling instructions, submission forms, and pick-up locations throughout the Northeast.
We have the capacity to analyze a diversity of environmental and biological samples. For example, we provide analytical services to the food and beverage industry, biotechnology firms, and aquaculture companies. Please contact us at soiltest@cornell.edu to learn more.
Starting in 2011, CNAL will be conducting the analyses for the Cornell Soil Health Assessment. Visit the Cornell Soil Health website for more information and instructions for preparing and shipping samples.
- 1030 Soil Fertility Test Package #1 (Morgan extractable nutrients and nitrate, pH, buffer pH, and organic matter)
- 1060 Soil Fertility Test Package #2 (Modified Morgan, Mehlich I, or Mehlich III extractable nutrients, pH, buffer pH, and organic matter)
- 2020 Soil Total Elemental Analysis (Microwave assisted acid digestion; EPA Method 3051-6010B)
- 2735 Soil/6745 Plant Total Carbon and Total Nitrogen (Combustion analysis)
- 4200 Water/Solution Total Elemental Analysis (Microwave assisted acid digestion; EPA Method 3015-6010B)
- 6010 Plant Total Elemental Analysis (Dry ash)
Throughout the year, CNAL shares our work with stakeholders at commodity meetings, national conferences, and through our website. We also offer educational opportunities for students, and host numerous tours of our facilities.
The Cornell pH Test Kit is designed to quickly determine the soil pH in the garden or field.
Read more.
- Soil
- Plant tissue
- Water, extracts, and other solutions
- Manure - Contact DairyOne: 800-496-3344
- Compost
- Greenhouse potting soil and root media
CNAL is committed to the ongoing development of innovative analytical tools and methodologies. The Lab partners with the public and private sectors to research and develop new tests. Please contact us at soiltest@cornell.edu to learn more about CNAL’s program and services.