Orchard Outlook Newsletter Vol. 26, No 13

Summer Samples for Nutrient Analysis

Leaf Tissue Sampling for Nutrient Analysis

Nutrient levels in leaf tissues change throughout the growing season. The nutrient analysis for apple tree leaves has historically been done after terminal buds set and recommendations are based on that specific timing (late July and into August in Nova Scotia). Collecting samples prior to or after the specified period may give inaccurate nutrient level readings. Annual fertilizer applications should be based on tissue analysis reports and other factors such as pruning, vegetative growth and anticipated crop load.

Recommendations:

Collect leaves for nutrient analysis after terminal buds set on this season’s extension growth. Typically sampling is completed by mid-August.

The protocol:

• A sample usually represents a block of orchard 1 to 2 hectares in size.
• Sample 10 apple leaves from each of 10 representative trees of the same variety for a total sample size of 100 leaves. Sample from the same trees every year to limit the variation between years. Try marking the tree with spray paint.
• Collect leaves from the mid-point of the current year’s growth from throughout all sides of the tree.
• Place the leaf samples in a paper bag.
• If there are problem areas within the orchard, then sample trees in the problem areas separately.
• The leaf sample needs to be submitted as soon as possible after collection in order to obtain an accurate nutrient analysis. If the sample cannot be submitted right away, refrigerate until it can be submitted.
• Always label samples with the grower or farm name, mailing address, phone number, farm registration number, orchard block name, variety and sample number.
• Take an accurate sample by reviewing some guidelines on Fruit Crop Tissue Sampling Guide and for help interpreting results review Understanding the Tissue Analysis Report. Further information is available on How to Take a Plant Tissue Sample.

Soil Sampling for Nutrient Analysis

A leaf nutrient test tells you whether a nutrient has been absorbed. A soil analysis, on the other hand, shows what levels are available to the root system. If a tree cannot uptake nutrients from adequate soil levels then perhaps your limiting factor is not related to nutrient availability and is more likely related to compaction, nematodes or pathogens affecting the root system. Or more simply, a soil nutrient test could determine a soil nutrient deficiency.

Recommendations:

• Soil samples do not need to be collected on an annual basis but should be collected at least once every three years.
• Two to four soil cores should be taken at the drip line from each of 10 trees. The soil cores should be mixed and a representative sample placed in a soil box or sealable plastic bag for analysis. 
• Early August is a good time to sample orchard soil unless the soil is unusually dry or recently leached by heavy rains. If the soil is too dry it is very difficult to extract full 0-15 cm (0-6") soil samples and a better sample will be obtained by waiting until light rain has moistened the topsoil.
• Take an accurate sample by reviewing some guidelines on How to Take a Soil Sample and for help interpreting results review Soil Test Report Interpretation for Nova Scotia.

Perennia Lab Services

Effective May 1, 2026, Perennia is fully operating the former Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture (NSDA) Analytical Lab at the Harlow Institute Building, 176 College Road in Truro.

In addition to mineral and bacteria water testing, we are conducting the same tests as previously offered: 

• Soil analysis for lawn, garden and field samples
• Soil amendment analysis
• Greenhouse soil, nutrients and water + field, milk house water, etc.
• Feed analysis
• Digest samples
• Plant tissue analysis

We are also continuing to offer the 50 per cent discount on the same tests as when the lab was operated by NSDA for farmers with a current farm registration number. Our service fees also haven’t been changed and the overview PDF is available at https://www.perennia.ca/analytical-lab

For drinking water samples, these tests can only be accepted at the Harlow Building in Truro.

All other samples can continue to be dropped off at:

• NSDA Digby and Antigonish offices
• Nova Scotia Department for Natural Resources and Renewables Strathlorne Nursery in Inverness
• Harlow Building in Truro
• Perennia office in Kentville – Samples should now be dropped off at the Perennia Office instead of the NSDA office.

Soil collection supplies can also be obtained at these locations along with submission forms and resources.

All drop-off dates and times, locations, submission forms, how-to resource forms and interpretation guides, payment methods and fee listing are all available at www.perennia.ca/labservices where you can also order tests from our Plant Health Lab.

For more information or questions please contact labs@perennia.ca