of some elements, it would be regarded as a deficiency 

 of other elements. A soil containing % of 1% humus 

 is lacking in that substance, while that amount of 

 potash or lime would be considered ample for 

 fertility. 



Again, soil analyses may reveal the presence of 

 some poison, such as carbonate of soda, or chlorine, 

 in the midst of otherwise fertile conditions. An 

 excess of either acid or alkali can likewise be deter- 

 mined. Plant food may be present in abundance and 

 yet the results be unsatisfactory on account of poor 

 cultural conditions. This, also, soil analysis would 

 reveal. 



Whenever there is uncertainty about the needs of 

 crops or orchard, soil analyses should always be 

 taken. One element, only, may be lacking and thus 

 discovered, and the purchase of the element unneces- 

 sary be avoided. The State Experiment Station has 

 advised farmers that sufficient potash is present in 

 nearly all California soils. General experience has 

 confirmed this statement, thus saving the farmers 

 many dollars annually. 



