The soil and plant analyses performed by the commercial laboratory while similar in many respects to the research or extension programs, vary from them in one or more of the following ways:(l) Results must be made available quickly to the grower. (2) Analyses have to be much more complete. (3) Many analyses of both soil and plant have to be made during the growing season. The frequency of sampling depends upon the plant, soil and climate, and (4) The commercial laboratory must show a profit to stay in business. It is often hampered in doing so by unfair competition of governmental agencies that provide such services free of charge or permit their employees to act as private consultants while holding a government job.