Leaf Testing
Leaf Testing (sometimes called Herbage Testing) to soil testing is what a blood test is to a liver test. Soil tests tell us what is stored in the soil that may be used in the future (like the liver), whereas leaf tests tell us what the plant is using right now (like the blood).
Leaf tests are usually carried out in conjunction with soil tests to show up any particular deficiency or imbalance that is occurring in the plant. (Especially for Trace Elements.)
Interpretation of the leaf test is more difficult than the soil test, but the greater reliability it provides justifies the extra effort. Horticultural crops and high value livestock (stud livestock/horses, dairying) may well benefit from leaf testing. Leaf tests are usually carried out in conjunction with soil tests to show up any particular deficiency or imbalance that is occurring in the plant. (Especially for Trace Elements.)
For horticultural crops please indicate the crop to be tested, as each has different leaf parts to be sampled. For grazing stock please indicate the purpose of the leaf test as there are a couple of options available to give the best results in a particular situation. (Clover only /Mixed Herbage.)
Leaf sample bags are supplied in the kit, but then your own scissors are needed to collect the samples.