Analyze Yard Soil Methods

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Category: Garden - Topic: Analyze Yard Soil Methods

Sometimes people plant a rosebush in their backyard and it dies sooner than it should. Don't think that you are the only person that this has happened to because this happens to the best of us-it doesn't have to-but it does. The soil you choose may not work with the scrub or plant you are putting in.

How does one find the answer? Begin by trying to obtain a soil sample. Simply by using a core sampler, shovel or trowel to dig 6 to 8 inches below the surface is the best way to begin. Munsell Soil Color Charts are best to classify soil samples. Munsell charts can be easily bought at various hardware stores around your area. Take an extended look at your sample and look specifically at the texture. The charts will show all aspects of the soil like the percentage of silt, grain sizes in soil, clay and loam. These all combined will show you the kind of soil you have.

Scout the soil-area and take notice of any structures. Soil structures can be important in analysis because they can read the porosity in the soil. When going to the store remember to pick up a pH meter. This will measure the pH in your soil. Once the pH has been determined you can identify its alkalinity or acidity. This will allow you to find out what kind of plants can be produced in your soil. This next part may sound very CSI, but send the sample to a soil analysis laboratory.

I know it sounds very difficult but it is easier than it sounds. To find the closest laboratory near you contact the Soil and Plant Analysis Council. There they will observe the soil and do in-depth analysis. Stuff like analysis of organic matter and nutrient levels including oxygen, nitrogen, phosphorus and calcium. Now you know how to analyze soil.