TAKING A SOIL SAMPLE Jill Montle, District Technician Athens SWCD

TAKING A SOIL SAMPLE  Why should we sample? Soil sampling or testing shows our soils potential productivity.  Why should we care? Knowing the nutrient content of soils, allows us to CORRECTLY make appropriate amendments to maximize yields – whether it be crops, pasture, lawn, etc.

TAKING A SOIL SAMPLE Typically we sample for the following:  Phosphorus (P)  Potassium (K)  Calcium (Ca)  Magnesium (Mg)  pH  Cation exchange capacity  Organic matter %

TAKING A SOIL SAMPLE Example of a soil sample result.

TAKING A SOIL SAMPLE  When should we test? Spring or Fall. Don’t try to sample soils that are extremely wet or dry.  What would be an advantage to fall testing? Fall sampling allows time for any potentially needed lime application to be applied as it can take as long as 6 months for a lime application adjust soil pH.  How often? Generally every 3-4 years.

Tools of the trade  Clean instruments!  Clean collection containers – plastic works great.  Use stainless steel or chrome- plated instruments and/or collection containers. Soil sampling probes are available for use for a REFUNDABLE deposit of $50.  Avoid brass, bronze or galvanized tools or collection containers. TAKING A SOIL SAMPLE

 Take soil cores or slices from at least 15 different places, using a zigzag pattern to obtain the best representation of the area. Simple steps! TAKING A SOIL SAMPLE

 Sample a row crop field or garden between rows to avoid fertilizer bands.  Take separate samples from fields that have received different fertility programs or that have different land uses.  Take separate samples from soils that are distinguishable by color, drainage, unique land form features, or other factors i.e. in a draw, on a hill, etc.  Test results are only going to be as good as the sample taken, therefore it is very important to take a representative sample.

Simple steps!  Remove the top debris, residue, rocks, etc. TAKING A SOIL SAMPLE

Simple steps!  Sample gardens, trees, shrubs, flower beds and orchards 6-8 inches deep.  Sample lawns 3-4 inches deep. TAKING A SOIL SAMPLE

 Mix all samples in your clean container.  Let sample AIR dry.  Remove any stones, roots, or other debris.  Crush any clumps.  Take sample to business of choice for analysis. About one cup of soil is appropriate. Simple steps! TAKING A SOIL SAMPLE

Sample of form you will need to fill out when sending off your soil.

TAKING A SOIL SAMPLE

Nutrient availability by pH in mineral soils.

DON’T GUESS – SOIL TEST!