Soil Sampling

January, 2019
 Taylor Davis, UF/IFAS Extension Highlands, Sebring

Soil sampling 

Why is it good to take soil samples?

  • Nutrient amounts in the soil matches plant needs.

  • Future nutrient applications match and do not exceed the needs of the plants

  • Monitor and correct soil acidity levels (pH) to ensure nutrient uptake.

When to collect a soil sample:  Fall

  • Lab results and nutrient recommendations may be returned more quickly because fewer samples are submitted.

  • Allows you to apply the fertilizer when prices are generally lower.

  • A field should always be resampled at the same time of the year so you can make historical comparisons.

.  Tools needed:

  • Soil probe or trowel

  • Plastic bucket

  • Soil sample kit

How to sample:

  • An individual sample should represent no more than 10 acres.

  • Larger pasture of 15 acres, collect samples in a “W” shape/pattern.

  • Considerations for sampling specific areas:

    • Past management

    • Cropping history

    • Individually sample areas that have received different management or vary in soil type, have suffered erosion or that are different in topography.

  • Collect at least 20 soil cores for small areas and up to 30 cores for larger fields.

  • Depth

    • Forages on average will utilize the first four (4) to six (6) inches of depth in our soil.

    • Take a core sample that is comprised of equal amounts of soil from zero (0) to six (6) inches in depth.

  • Randomly take the soil cores throughout the sampling area and place them in a plastic bucket.

DON'T sample:

  • Dung piles

  • Old fencerows or under trees

  • Areas used for manure or hay storage

  • Livestock feeding areas

  • Where lime was previously stockpiled

Submitting a sample:

  • Mix your cores together and remove all plant material and stones.
  • Collect about a quart bag of soil and let it dry off completely
  • Fill in your information on the bag BEFORE putting the soil in it.
  • Match the information on your bag and the submittal form.

Soil Test Results and Interpretations:

  • Soil acidity (pH)

  • Lime and Fertilizer recommendations

  • Nutrient levels

    • Phosphorous (P)

    • Potassium (K)

    • Magnesium (Mg)

    • Calcium (Ca)

 

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