How to Perform Soil Sampling for Biology Assessment
- Select Fields for Testing: To begin, we recommend starting with two or three representative fields. It’s essential to collect samples while weeds or crops are actively growing, as this is when microbial numbers and activity are at their peak.
- Gather Soil Samples: Follow these steps to gather accurate soil samples
- Choose an average yielding area within the field. For example, if your bean field averaged 50 bushels per acre, select an area with a yield close to that number.
- Gently remove any crop residue from the soil surface in the area where you plan to take a core. However, do not disturb or remove the topsoil layer (approximately 1/4″), as it contains valuable soil biology.
- Using a clean soil probe, collect seven cores, each 3 inches deep, from an approximately 10′ x 10′ area. Place the cores into a soil sample bag.
- For future reference, consider placing a flag in the sampled area to ensure consistent sampling if retesting is required.
- Label each bag with the field name and specify the crop type that will be grown in that field next season or the current crop type (corn, beans, watermelons, wheat, canola, etc.).
Additional Sampling Option
If desired, you can compare biology between different areas within the same field. Take two samples—one from a higher yielding area and another from a lower yielding area—to analyze and compare the soil biology. However, if you know that the lower yielding spot is due to specific reasons such as compaction, wet swales, sandy ridges, etc., it may not be necessary to invest in a separate biology sample (unless you wish to do so).
Understanding the Results
The microscopic assessment is a meticulous process that can take several hours to complete. Therefore, we typically provide the results within 1-2 weeks after receiving your samples. While a consultation to discuss and explain the results and treatment options is available, it is not mandatory. We believe in providing our customers with the freedom to choose the level of engagement that suits their needs.
