Take soil from 10 to 15 spots across the field at root depth, mix it well, and send about half a kilogram to a soil testing lab. A good sample gives an accurate test, and an accurate test tells you what your soil actually needs.
Steps
- Walk the field in a zig-zag and mark 10 to 15 spots. Avoid bunds, manure heaps, trees and wet patches.
- Scrape away surface litter.
- Dig a V-shaped hole to plough depth (about 15 cm; deeper for orchards).
- Take a thin slice from the side of the hole.
- Mix all slices in a clean bucket.
- Spread, remove stones and roots, and keep about half a kilogram.
- Put it in a clean bag with your name, field, crop and date.
What to ask the lab to test
- pH and EC (salts).
- Organic carbon.
- Nitrogen, phosphorus and potash.
- Micronutrients such as zinc, iron and boron.
When to sample
- Before sowing or planting, or after harvest.
- Every two to three years for the same field.
- Separately for parts of the field that look different.
Written by Gafar Laiya, founder of Gujarat Bio Organics, working with farmers since 2006. Results differ from farm to farm with soil, weather, crop and management. Farmer experiences on this site are their own reports, not a promise of results.
Questions
Where can I get my soil tested?
Government soil testing labs, Krishi Vigyan Kendras and private labs test soil. The Soil Health Card scheme also offers testing.
Should I sample each field separately?
Yes. Fields with different soil, crop history or yield should be sampled separately.
Send us your enquiry
Tell us your crop, the problem and your location, and send a photo if you can. Our team replies on WhatsApp or calls you with what to check, which product suits and where to buy it near you.