Our Mission
Our mission is to serve the citizens of South Carolina and to protect property and the environment through regulation, service, and enforcement by utilizing a combination of analysis, diagnostics, education, and inspection.
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About Us
"Chemical analyses of fertilizer, lime, and landplaster samples to confirm product guarantees."
We are a regulatory laboratory. Our staff includes a lab director, two full-time chemists, and program assistant with over 50 years combined laboratory experience. Our advanced instrumentation consists of an ICP-OES DSOI, Nitrogen Combustion Analyzer, Sulfur Combustion Analyzer, and Spectrophotometer. We operate based on guidance from South Carolina Fertilizer Law, AoAC and AAPFCO.
Email: fertlab@clemson.edu
Phone:
Amy - 864-656-2710
Chris - 864-656-2109 -
Laboratory Capabilities
Fertilizer samples are analyzed to determine whether they contain the specified amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other components as indicated on the product label. Landplaster and gypsum samples are also analyzed for specified guarantees. The fertilizer laboratory only accepts regulatory inspector submitted samples or research samples on case-by-case basis.
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Methods Used & Lab Equipment
Methods Used:
- Offical Methods of Analysis of AoAC International
- Fertilizer Sampling and Analyical Procedures-The Fertilizer Institute
Lab Equipment:
- ICP - Inductively Coupled Plasma
- Spectrophotometer
- Combustion Analyzers
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Do you test fertilizer for individuals?
No. Most official samples are collected at the time fertilizers are being blended for farmers. Some others are sampled from packaged fertilizer available for sale at stores or farm and garden centers. The fertilizer laboratory only accepts regulatory inspector submitted samples or research samples on case-by-case basis. -
Can I store fertilizer to use next year?
Yes, you can store fertilizer for next year. To preserve the nutrient quality, ensure it is kept in a securely sealed container in a dry place with no chance of moisture. -
What brand of fertilizer does the Regulatory program recommend?
We do not endorse any fertilizer brand or company. -
Can you help with soil testing to recommend the right fertilizer?
While our primary role involves testing fertilizers, we can guide you to the Agricultural Service Lab for your soil testing needs. -
How do you ensure environmental safety with fertilizer testing?
We follow strict protocols to prevent environmental contamination during testing. This includes proper disposal of testing samples, ensuring no runoff into water systems, and advising on the use of fertilizers that minimize environmental impact, particularly in terms of nutrient leaching and runoff.
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Affiliations and Associations
- Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AoAC) International
- Association of American Plant Food Control Officials (AAPFCO)
- Magruder Fertilizer Check Program
Fertilizer Inspection and Analysis
- The Department of Fertilizer Regulatory and Certification Services (FRCS) houses the Fertilizer Laboratory as part of the Fertilizer Regulatory Program.
- The lab operates by accepting samp les of fertilizer, lime, and landplaster collected by department inspectors.
- The lab tests samples for chemical content to ensure product guarantees are met
- N-P-K
- Other macro and micro elements- Ca, Mg, S, B, Cl, Cu, Zn, Mn
- CCE- calcium carbonate equivalent
- Lab operations are integral to enforcement of the South Carolina Fertilizer Law, the South Carolina Soil Amendment Regulation, and the South Carolina Agricultural Liming Materials Act.
