Soil Testing

Question 1

What are the main objectives of a soil test?

Answer 1

1. Provide an index of nutrient availability in soil.
2. Provide an index of nutrient loss/transport from the soil.
3. Predict the probability of obtaining a profitable response to fertilisation or liming.

Question 2

What depth should samples be pulled?

Answer 2

0-8 inches (Soil root zone)

Question 3

How and when should you conduct sampling?

Answer 3

Ideally 3 times a year at minimum for high-grade pitches.

Autumn (as growth stops)

Spring (as growth is staring)

Peak Growth period

Question 4

If you are taking samples from different locations what should be considered when grouping the zones?

Answer 4

1. Management plan
2. Topography
3. Soil Type
4. Drainage Class
5. Use designation. (Per football pitch, green, tee, fairway)