How to Take an Accurate Soil Sample

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Obtain a soil sample bag or bags from a Department of Agriculture extension office.

   (Listed under US Government in the phone book.) It will contain directions and labeling instructions.
   
   Alternatively, purchase the bag from a commercial testing lab.
   
   The cost for either should be around $5.00 to $10.00.
2. 2

   Step 2: Get a shovel

   Be sure each is clean of any contaminating chemicals or dirt. , Dig out a shovel full of dirt about 6 to 8 inches (15.2 to
   20.3 cm) deep, and set this shovelful aside. ,, If the plot is more than one quarter acre, you may want to divide it into sections and test each section separately.
   
   This is also necessary if different sections of the garden have different soil types.
   
   For example, if part is on an alluvial flood plain and part is on a slope. , Then mix the soil together thoroughly. ,,
3. 3

   Step 3: a plastic bucket or container

4. 4

   Step 4: and a garden trowel.

5. 5

   Step 5: Pick a typical spot six by six inches

6. 6

   Step 6: remove any plants

7. 7

   Step 7: scrape mulch and leaf litter from the soil surface.

8. 8

   Step 8: Use the trowel to scrape down one side of the hole digging out a half inch vertical section of soil

9. 9

   Step 9: and place it in the bucket.

10. 10

    Step 10: Repeat steps 2 and 3 at least three times in different parts of the garden so that the soil sample represents your whole garden when mixed.

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    Step 11: Remove anything that is not soil such as roots

12. 12

    Step 12: rocks.

13. 13

    Step 13: Fill the soil sample bag or container with the necessary amount of mixed soil

14. 14

    Step 14: complete the paperwork

15. 15

    Step 15: and mail it to the lab.

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    Step 16: Receive an analysis of the soil's pH

17. 17

    Step 17: nutrient levels and other characteristics with recommendations for improving the soil for gardening.

Detailed Guide

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