Q: When and how often should soils be tested?Ī: Soils can be tested any time during the year. The AG Center will contact you when processing your information and you can pay over the phone. Transfer the soil into the sample bag – pay attention to the fill line.Be specific – “vegetable garden” is too broad of a term – “cabbage patch and tomatoes” are a better description as you may get different recommendations for different growing needs. The soil sample report will make specific recommendations on adjusting PH and fertilizer needs. Make sure you write down the crop you plan on growing.Please write legibly or print, so the Extension Office can reach you. Pick up a sample bag from the drop off box and fill in the information on the front.Bring your dried sample to the Ag Center. Your extension office will send samples to The Soil, Plant and Water Lab at the University of Georgia. After drying, transfer the sample to the soil sample bag and bring it to your local extension office. Dry samples on a flat surface lined with clean white paper. Be sure to identify the sample clearly on the bag and the submission form before mailing. Take about a pint of the mixed soil and place it the UGA soil sample bag. Collect from several locations.Ĭombine and mix them in a plastic bucket to avoid metal contamination. Then, as shown in Figure 3, cut a thin slice from the side of the opening that is of uniform thickness, approximately 1/4-inch thick and 2 inches in width, extending from the top of the ground to the depth of the cut. Push the handle forward, with the spade still in the soil to make a wide opening. Using a trowel, push the tool to the desired depth into the soil. 5.) Sampling ProceduresĬlear the ground surface of grass thatch or mulch (Figure 2). Collect samples with tools like trowels, shovels, spades, hand probes or hand augers. Never use tools or containers that have been used for fertilizer or lime. Use clean sampling tools and containers to avoid contaminating the soil sample. This allows adequate time for sample analysis, data interpretation, and fertilizer and lime application. Soil sampling should be done well in advance of planting or spring green-up.
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