Soil Sampling

Soil Sampling
Objective
1. To collect a soil sample that is representative of a field or portion of
a field

2. To obtain information about a field and use that information to

make management decisions
• Nutrient management
• Soil problems management
Sampling a Field:

• 2 basic methods/approaches
• Random
• Zone

Note: Grid systems are easy to plan but ignores field characteristics and soil
properties that are found in the natural zones which can be mapped by vegetation
and geology, leading to incorrect baseline assessment if the soil is mixed randomly
or samples are kept separately. However, developing management zones takes a lot
of data, field knowledge, computer analysis and time.
https://www.corteva.us/Resources/crop-protection/corn/soil-testing.html
 Sampling a Field

1. Random
• Suitable for uniform fields
• Sample should represent no
more than 5-10 acre
• 20 cores composited to
produce one sample
• Collected in a zig-zag pattern
across the field
Sampling a Field
2. Zone
Recommended for fields
having definite patches of
low fertility, salinity and
sodicity
• Divide field into areas
that are < 5-10 acre (2-3
Ha)
• 20 cores composited to
produce 1 sample/zone
• Collected in a zig-zag
pattern across the zone
 How to take a soil sample

1. Determine where/how you will sample

2. Gather equipment
• Buckets
• Augers
 Taking samples at cultivated depth – for
agriculture and horticulture

Cut 5cm strip

from
side
Plow
Depth
15-20 cm

Soil auger Spade

How to take a soil sample

3. Sampling depth
Core to a depth of 15 - 25cm

4. Sample Size
One kg soil sample. Place the 20 cores into a bucket & mix thoroughly

4. Place in sample box

Fill out info. on box & paperwork