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SOIL SAMPLING

PREPARED BY

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What is soil sampling?

Soil sampling or soil test is the analysis of physical and chemical properties of soil it involves determining nutrient and contaminant content, composition and other characteristics such as acidity or pH level.

PURPOSE OF SOIL SAMPLING:

Soil sampling is performed in order to:
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Check soil pollution from excessive fertility and inhibitions from the presence of nonessential trace minerals . Measure the expected growth potential of a soil. Measures fertility of the soil. Indicate deficiencies like that of lime ,Nitrogen Potassium, Phosphorus etc. that need to be

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Cause of contamination:
Soil contamination results from a number of causes, including the dumping of hazardous substances, pesticide and fertilizer use, and industrial or chemical processes. Pollutants in soils can also be transported to groundwater sources and into the air. Contaminated soils are often a major concern at Brownfields and Superfund sites. Common soil contaminants include arsenic, benzene,

TAKING SOIL SAMPLE AT RIGHT TIME

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A soil sample must be taken at right time and right way. Samples can be taken anytime of the year, but. Adequate time is needed to implement laboratory recommendations in time for the crop to be planted. Take a soil sample a few months before starting any new landscaping-whether you are starting a vegetable garden, putting in a flower bed, or planting perennials. For areas recently limed or fertilized, delay sampling at least six to eight weeks.

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SAMPLING EQUIPMENTS
Use

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a soil probe, spade, hand garden trowel, or shovel to collect samples. Do not use brass, bronze, or galvanized tools because they will contaminate samples with copper and/or zinc. Mix samples in a clean, plastic bucket. If the bucket has been used to hold fertilizer or other chemicals, wash it thoroughly before using it for soil samples.

SAMPLING PROCEDURE

1.A V-shaped hole must be dug with the 20 to 30 cm of depth. 2. A slice is cut approximately 2.5-3.0 cm thick. 3. Both sides of the slice must then be trimmed leaving a 3.0 cm strip, which is then put it in a clean container. 4. After that, the soil samples should be mixed thoroughly in the container.

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SAMPLING PROCEDURE
5. Put labels and attach a record to the sample. The record will assist in the interpretation of the results and this should include the soil ID, sample date, site of samples, depth, area plants type, soil color, season and temperature, humidity, grains size. 6. If the samples are not dried, they should be airdried at room temperature within 12 hours of extraction.

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After collecting the soil samples they are taken for analysis. A number of tests are performed which include v soil pH. v Available phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). v They also include available calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) v Test for salinity. v An analysis of ORGANIC MATTER and soil texture. v Test for nitrogen (N), sulfur (S), and micronutrient analyses. Soil analyses can provide information that is important for maximizing nutrient use efficiency and agricultural productivity.

ANALYSIS OF SOIL SAMPLES

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Interpreting the results of the sample analysis

Soil test result is usually interpreted in ppm (parts per million) To help in better understanding the following are also used:

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HIGH LOW OPTIMUM VERY LOW VERY HIGH etc.

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Making recommendations
A good recommendation includes: Type of nutrients that your field or garden lacks, or doesnt lack Proper timing for nutrient additions Suggested rates for nutrients application.

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OUTCOME:
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Proper sampling and analysis of soil and implementation of the guidelines result in:

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Increased yield Reduced cost Reduced environmental pollution

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