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IMPORTANT INFORMATION

  • Where is the laboratory located? Where can I send my samples to?
    The laboratory is located at Mine View, Ballycooleen, Avoca, Country Wicklow Y14 X898. The samples can also be sent to this address.
  • How can I contact the laboratory?
    The laboratory can be contacted on 089 201 3374 or info@cealaboratories.com.
  • Do I sending anything with my samples to the laboratory?
    All samples must be accompanied by a CEA Laboratories Sample Card. This provides information on the samples received to the laboratory, including how the results will be sent back to the customer.
  • How will I receive my results?
    The results will mainly be sent out by email from info@cealaboratories.com. However, if the customer requires the results to be posted out, this can be done too.
  • How does payment for the tests work?
    The tests are mostly paid online before the samples are sent into the laboratory. For example, the farmer will pay for his soil test, and then send his samples in, and the laboratory will have records of the payment, complete the testing and send the results back. Payment can also be completed in-person at the laboratory if needed. NO RESULTS will be released before payment.
  • Why is testing your soil important?
    It is important for farmers to test their soil was it will provide critical information needed for growth. It will indicate if they need to spread less, or no fertilizer, which will save money. It will also indicate deficiencies in the soil, which when fixed will increase growth, providing more profits.
  • When should I take my soil sample?
    The ideal time to take soil sample is between March and Early September, when the ground is somewhat dry. It is important not to take a sample for 3-6 months after spreading fertilizer containing phosphorus (P), or potassium (K). It is also advised not to test soil for 2 years after lime has been spread.
  • How do I take the soil sample? Do I avoid anywhere when sampling?
    The guidelines on how to take soil samples can be found here: It is advised to to sample from hedges, near drinking troughs, walls, fences, dung patches or areas where fertilizer has been placed/stored.
  • How often should I test my soil?
    It is advised to test your soil every 2 years, and this is now a requirement for farmers on schemes such as Derogation.
  • What area does one soil sample cover?
    It is advised to divide the fields into areas of 2 - 4Ha, with a maximum of 5Ha. If you increase beyond 5Ha, the accuracy of the test decreases. Other conditions can be used to divide up fields such as prior performance, soil type, animal type, cropping history and more.
  • What do I use to test my soil? What is the correct depth of the test?
    An instrument called a soil corer is used to retrieve the soil cores from the soil. These can be sourced from the laboratory or a local sales representative. The cores should be taken to a depth of 100mm, or 10cm.
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