Soil sampling
Based on
The most critical step in soil testing is collecting the sample. It is important that you take the necessary steps to obtain a representative sample; a poor sample could result in erroneous recommendations. A representative sample characterises the whole area. Using a clean bucket and a spade, auger, or sampling tube collect 12 or more subsamples from random spots within the defined area then mix them together into one soil samples. Maximum 5 hectare area can be characterized by one representative sample. Soil physical appearance, texture, color, slope, drainage, and past management should be similar throughout the area.
In case of arable crops we collect samples to a depth of 30 cm, in case of fruit trees or grapes to a depth of 0-30cm and 30-60cm.
It may be helpful to draw a map of the property and identify areas where you will collect samples.
Avoid sampling field or plot edges and other nonrepresentative areas. Avoid sampling when the soil is very wet or within 100 days of a lime or fertilizer application. Soil samples can be collected through much of the year, although fall (September to December) is the most common to collect samples.
After collecting subsamplesinto a bucket spread it on a nylon film or concrete , and thoroughly mix it. Then remove stones, roots, and debris and scoop out approximately ½-1 kg soil. You can take it into a nylon bag, but soon it has to bespread again to air-dry. Do not apply heat.Do not submit wet soil samples to the lab.
Place approximately ½ kg soil of your dry sample in a plastic zip-lock bag (or paper bag). Label each ziplock bag with your sample ID (you create this)
Plant sampling
Based on
The nutrient concentration in a plant varies with the plant’s age and the part of the plant sampled. If you want to evaluate the nutrient supply of the plant, you have to collect plants at their appropriate age based on strict instructions. e.g. For corn there are three recommended plant age. These are the following:
If you collect samples in this way you can find tables with critical nutrient values in the literature, and you can evaluate the samples otherwise it is not possible.
To make a representative sample randomly select at least 10 samplesof plants throughout a field or desired sampling area, When a nutrient problem is suspected or there is abnormal growth in part of the area, collect two samples for comparison, one from the normal-appearing area and one from the abnormal area. Collect the designated plant parts and place in a clean paper bag Dust- or soil-covered plant parts should be avoided. If sampled parts have a slight dust cover, brush gently with a soft brush. Do not rinse or wash with water as some elements may be leached from the sample. Sampling for diagnostic purposes usually means that some dead or diseased tissue is associated with abnormal plant growth that should be included. For best resultsallow the samples to air dry. Never put the tissue into a plastic bag.
Soil sampling
1. What is the meaning of representative sample?
2. How do we collect it? (in one sentence)
3. At least how much subsamples do we collect?
4. When can we collect soil samples?
5. What do we have to do with the wet soil? How can we do it?
6. How much sample do we have to carry into the lab?
Plant sampling:
1. How do we collect repesentative plant sample? (in one sentence)
3. At least how much subsamples do we collect?
3. When can we collect plant samples (with explanation)?
4. What do we have to do when the plant is covered with dust (with explanation)?
5. What kind of bag can you use?