This test is designed to complement traditional soil fertility testing by providing a biological indicator of soil health. Understanding the biological life beneath your vines is becoming essential for long-term vineyard productivity and sustainability.
Earthworms play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy soil ecosystem, making them an important indicator of soil health in vineyards. Their natural activity enhances soil structure and aeration, allowing vine roots to grow more freely and access oxygen. They also contribute significantly to nutrient cycling, breaking down organic matter and making essential minerals more available to plants. By improving water infiltration and retention, earthworms help the soil hold moisture more effectively. Additionally, their presence supports microbial diversity and activity, fostering a thriving underground community that benefits vine health and grape quality.
Traditional methods of assessing earthworm populations involve digging and manually counting worms, a process that’s time-consuming and disruptive to the vineyard floor.
Our Earthworm eDNA test offers a simple, non-invasive alternative. Using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), this test detects the presence of Aporrectodea caliginosa, New Zealand’s most common earthworm species, directly from a soil sample.
What our customers have to say
"We've always found them to be responsive in getting results back and giving advice on problems we might be facing."
"We strongly recommend Hill Labs as a sound testing service provider to the honey industry."
"Their sample registration system has made things simple and seamless - collect, scan and send!"
Accreditations
As a New Zealand accredited laboratory by International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ), Hill Labs' commitment to quality is tantamount to our overall operating philosophy. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work.
