How to Sample Soils for Pesticides & Herbicides

Overview

Whether you're having your soil analyzed for chemicals such as pesticides and herbicides or testing for pH level, mineral or nutrient content, the process is similar. Delivering a proper sample to a testing facility will ensure that you receive an accurate assessment of your soil's chemical content. Some soil-testing facilities will recommend changes in the way you collect the soil, but most laboratories have the same procedure.

Step 1

Select a garden trowel that is not made of galvanized metal, brass or bronze. These materials can contaminate your sample.

Step 2

Clean your tools, including your garden trowel and plastic bucket, with water before using. Dry tools thoroughly.

Step 3

Dig 1 tbsp. of soil from the surface of your sampling location. Place this into a bucket. Then dig down approximately 6 inches and remove another tbsp. of soil and place in the bucket. Repeat for all sampling sites throughout your property.

Step 4

Mix all samples completely. Place the samples in a brown paper bag and close with a twist tie.

Step 5

Label the bag with the locations you have sampled, as well as any information your laboratory requires.

Step 6

Place all sample bags in a sturdy, cardboard box and ship to the laboratory for testing.