Dried vs. Undried Soils:
Soil nutrient levels continue to change even after a sample is taken, due to microbiological activity. Therefore, it is imperative that this activity be stopped as soon as possible after sampling (within 12 hours). Drying soil in an oven at a low temperature (100 F) is sufficient to do this and will stabilize the nutrients so they can be tested with accuracy. You can dry soil yourself in a glass or aluminum pan, stirring often, until no moisture remains or, you may refrigerate samples to maintain nutrient levels. Bring or send wet samples to us ASAP, packaged in a cardboard milk carton or paper bag.  Samples brought to our office can be in a ziplock bag, so long as soil is cool. 

Sampling Protocol:
A pint of soil is all that is used to represent many tons of soil in the field, so please take the time to sample carefully.   Listed below are a few keys to doing this correctly.

> Each soil sample should represent the area.
> By taking sub-samples from across the entire area, you will get a better representation of the field.
> Take sub-samples from a variety of spots, but avoid areas of obvious nutrient concentration (such as cow pies), or areas that are noticeably unusual.
> Mix the sub-samples thoroughly in a clean bucket and take your 2-cup sample from the resulting composite.
> Different areas should be sampled separately.  Please label the bag with field numbers or whatever method you need to help you identify the field the sample is from.
> Note that even in the same field, there may be more than one soil type, or within the same soil type, there may be more than one crop or land use.
> Make a map of your field and delineate where each soil sample came from (such as hill pasture, lowland pasture, lowland crop).  Again, be sure and label your sample bags.
> Contamination should be avoided.
> Use clean tools and take care while mixing and packaging soils for shipping.
> A sampling probe is the best tool in soils without rocks. TCD rents sampling probes to county residents at a fee of $5.00.
> Samples should be taken at the correct depth.
> For most samples, 0-12" is sufficient.
> If a 12-24" depth is desired, take a 0-12" sample first, then take a separate 12-24" sample.
> Soils should be sent immediately after sampling.
> If desired, you may air-dry soils before sending them.
> Pack samples in paper bags or plastic/glass containers if wet.
> Dry samples may be packaged the same, or in plastic bags.
> Label each sample with your name, address and phone number, where it came from (see #1 above), and the sampling date.

> Bring or mail to our office Monday through Thursday only.