Grass Leaf Tissue Analysis – For Heavy Metals

This analysis will reveal the heavy metal status of leaf tissue (grass leaves). This test can be used in isolation to reveal the level of heavy metals in grass or it can be used as a follow up test once a heavy metal soil test has revealed the presence of soil borne heavy metal contamination.

The analysis will report on levels of:

• Lead (Pb)
• Nickel (Ni)
• Arsenic (As)
• Cadmium (Cd)
• Chromium (Cr)
• Mercury (Hg)
• Copper (Cu)
• Zn (Zn)

How does a leaf tissue test work?

• On placing your order we will send over a sample bag and addressed pre-paid envelope and laboratory form.
• Fill the small sample bag to capacity with grass leaves (not stalks) Take a number of samples from different areas of your field, until the bag is completely full.
• To optimise sample freshness, post back on the same day of sampling and ideally not on a Friday as samples will not be processed over a weekend.
• Results are generally available in around 10 working days after posting to the laboratory

Note:  Please include the white A5 sheet with your sample, the invoice is for your records. Unfortunately without the white A5 sheet, the laboratory cannot process your analysis.

How to take samples for a leaf tissue test?

• Try to take samples from as many points in the field to be analysed
• Walking in a W shape will give a good overall analysis of the area
• Make sure that you fill the bag until it’s rammed full – if you don’t have enough leaves the laboratory will not be able to run the full tests
• Do not sample any leaves within 3 – 5 days after being sprayed with pesticides or foliar nutrients