Pasture Soil Testing Protocol
A step by step protocol for sampling pasture soil so lab results represent the field, written for producers and advisers who build fertility plans from soil tests.
Download free PDF1 page, US Letter, prints clean in black and white
GuideForages, Pasture & GrazingFree PDF
The steps on this page
- Divide pastures into uniform sampling areas
- Avoid dung pats, trails and water points
- Clean the probe and bucket
- Take cores at a consistent depth
- Combine cores and mix thoroughly
- Label each sample with field name
- Submit to the chosen lab with the right form
- File results with the field record
How to use this guide
Walk a new hand through the steps once, then let them use the page on their own. Add your own notes as you learn what works.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with eXtension and USDA NRCS.
For more in this area, see the ranch beef reference. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Landlord Raises Rent After Tenant Fixes Soil, and farming farm stories.