Title: Conduct a soil test.
Course: Biological Applications in Agriculture (18308-I) > Section: Understanding Principles of Water and Soil Quality

Conducting a soil test should include describing that soil tests can be used to optimize crop production, protect the environment from contamination by runoff and leaching of excess fertilizers, and aid in the diagnosis of plant culture problems. The soil test should also include

- determining the purpose for the test (e.g., pH, nutrient levels, soil type, excess soluble salt levels, diagnosing plant problems)
- collecting multiple soil samples from different areas
- avoiding contamination
- mixing them in a clean container
- preparing the sample and test or send a representative portion to the lab for analysis following the lab’s instructions
- determining recommendations for soil improvement.

Process/Skill Questions:

- Why is determining the pH and fertility level through a soil test the first step in planning a sound nutrient management program?
- Why are soil samples from soilless mixes tested differently than samples from field soil?
- What is an electrical conductivity (EC) meter; what does it test for; and why is it important for determining a general indication of nutrient deficiency or excess?
- What types of plant problems occur when there is an excess of soluble salts? Why does this happen?