BS EN 13040:2007

What is BS EN 13040 - Sample preparation for testing of soil improvers and growing media about? 

BS EN 13040 is a European standard covering sample preparation for testing of soil improvers and growing media, enabling improved soil structure and water retention in agricultural applications. 

BS EN 13040 specifies a routine method for preparing a sample of soil improver or growing media prior to chemical analysis and physical testing. 

The procedures described in BS EN 13040 apply only to those samples that are supplied to a laboratory in the form in which they will be used for their intended purpose. 

Note 1: BS EN 13040 is not applicable to liming materials and is not suitable for materials like rock wool and foam slabs. 

Note 2: The determination of the laboratory compacted bulk density is given in Annex A. 

Note 3: The results of an interlaboratory trial to determine moisture content are given in Annex B. 

Note 4: The results of an interlaboratory trial to determine compacted laboratory bulk density are given in Annex B. 

Note 5: Attention is drawn to the possible existence of national legislation for the declaration of specific products, which could differ from the general requirements of BS EN 13040. 

Who is BS EN 13040 - Sample preparation for testing of soil improvers and growing media for? 

BS EN 13040 on the sample preparation for testing of soil improvers and growing media applies to: 

• Manufacturers of soil improvers and growing media 
• Dealers and importers of soil improvers and growing media 
• Testing labs for soil improvers and growing media 
• Quality assurance services 
• Regulatory bodies 
• Soil inspection services 

Why should you use BS EN 13040 - Sample preparation for testing of soil improvers and growing media? 

Soil improvers are substrates that help to improve the structure and fertility of the soil. Soil improvers are mixed into the top layer of the garden, in the root zone of the plants. Growing medium are mixes of components that give plants water, air, nutrients, and support. 

BS EN 13040 provides users guidance on a method for preparing a sample of soil improver or growing media prior to chemical analysis and physical testing. BS EN 13040 also provides users guidance on transportation and storage of samples that ensures the safety and stability of samples for further testing. 

BS EN 13040 provides users guidance on principle, sampling, sample reception, transportation and storage of samples, preparation of un-dried test samples, preparation of dried ground test sample, determination of dry matter content, calculation, precision and test report, ensuring the purity, quality and performance of soil improvers and growing media. 

With obedience and compliance of BS EN 13040, users can assess soil improvers and growing media to ensure the quality, performance and longevity of soil improvers and growing media for increased crop yields in agricultural applications. 

What’s changed since the last update? 

BS EN 13040:2007 supersedes BS EN 13040:2000, which is now withdrawn.