How to Take a Soil Sample

Summary

This video explains how to properly take a soil sample to ensure accurate test results. It emphasizes the importance of collecting a representative composite sample by gathering several sub-samples from a field. The process involves using a clean plastic bucket and shovel to take soil slices from multiple locations in a zig-zag pattern, mixing them together. The sample should be from 2 to 6 inches deep, and if wet, it must be air-dried before packing. Detailed instructions for preparing and submitting the soil sample for testing are provided, with guidance on interpreting results through local resources.

Takeaways

• 🌱 Soil sample accuracy depends on the quality of the sample submitted.
• 📍 Each field should be sampled separately, especially if different sections have unique characteristics like poor drainage.
• 🪣 Essential equipment includes a plastic bucket and a clean, non-rusty shovel.
• 🔪 Cut vertical slices into the soil, removing the top inch before taking a subsample.
• 📏 Subsamples should be taken from a depth range of 2 to 6 inches.
• 🌀 Collect 5 to 7 subsamples in a zig-zag pattern across the field.
• 🥣 Mix the subsamples together in the bucket to create a composite sample.
• ☀️ If the soil is wet, air-dry it on cardboard before packing.
• 📦 Fill the sample box completely, avoiding plastic linings.
• 📝 Complete the form thoroughly and keep a copy for your records.

Q & A

What is the first step in taking a soil sample?

The first step is to decide which fields you are going to sample. Each field should be sampled separately, especially if there are sections with distinct features like poor drainage.

Why is it important to take a representative composite sample?

A representative composite sample ensures that the soil test results accurately reflect the condition of the entire field. The quality of the test results depends on how well the sample represents the field.

What tools are needed to take a soil sample?

You need a plastic bucket and a clean shovel. It's important not to use rusty or galvanized equipment to avoid contaminating the sample.

How do you collect a soil sample using a shovel?

Push the shovel down into the soil, pull it out vertically, make a second slice an inch or two behind the first, and angle the shovel back to remove a slice of soil. Then, remove the top inch of the soil and take a vertical section from the remaining slice to make a sub-sample.

How deep should you collect soil for each sub-sample?

Each sub-sample should include soil from a depth range of two to six inches.

How many sub-samples should you collect, and in what pattern?

You should collect five to seven sub-samples in a zig-zag pattern around the field.

What should you do after collecting all the sub-samples?

Place all the sub-samples in the plastic bucket and use the shovel to mix them together thoroughly.

What should you do if the soil is wet?

If the soil is wet, dump it out onto a piece of cardboard to air dry before packing it up for submission.

How should you fill the sample box with soil?

Fill the cardboard sample box to the top with soil, and ensure the box is not lined with any plastic material.

Where can you seek help interpreting the soil test results?

You can contact your local Cornell Cooperative Extension County office or a regional specialist for assistance with interpreting your soil test results.