Collection Methods

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The object of collecting soil is to take a small amount of samples that will represent the entire area to be fertilized or pH adjusted.  Different soil from different areas require a separate collection.  Other factors that influence the amount of samples and your results will include the type of tools used, number of sub samples, depth of sampling, soil moisture and hardness of soil.

Tools

     Tools needed for soil sampling include a spade shovel, trowel, or other professional soil sampling tools which can be obtained from your local Agricultural Extension Agent.

Number of Samples

• For large areas (pastures and fields), collect anywhere between 5-10 soil core samples per acre or for each different area to be fertilized.

• For small areas (gardens and lawns), collect anywhere between 2-3 soil core samples per 1,000 sq ft. or for each different area to be fertilized.

• Do not sample areas of soil recently plowed, fertilized, or altered in anyway due to altering of overall soil analysis results.

Depth of Samples

• Most soil samples are taken around 4-6 inches but alterations to soil (fertilizer, lime, plowing, and type of plant or crop) can require a different depth.

•        1.  fertilizer applied soils  =  sample soil just below fertilizer application depth (6-            8 inches)

•        2.  plowed soils  =  sample just below plowed depth (6-8 inches)

•        3.  non-plowed areas = sample depth 2-5 inches

•        4.  perennial lawns, turf and golf greens  = sample depth (3-4 inches)

•        5.  deep rooted perennials  =  sample depth just below root zone (6-8 inches)

•        6.  annuals  =  sample depth just below root zone (2-3 inches)

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