Soil sample collection

Printable sample collection guidelines: Cornell Soil Health Test Sampling Protocols.

To jump to a specific sampling topic in the video:

  • Sampling strategy: 0:00 
  • Taking the soil sample: 1:18
  • Penetrometer readings: 3:49
  • Preparing your sample: 5:12 
  • Shipping your sample: 7:37

Quick guide to taking a soil sample for the Cornell Soil Health Laboratory:

Identify 10 locations within the area you would like to test that are representative of the field or plot.

1. Remove surface debris.

2. Use a spade to dig a small hole about 8” deep. From the side of the hole take a vertical slice of soil 6” deep and about 2” thick. Collect the same amount of soil from all soil depths so the sample is not biased with more soil from the top compared to the bottom.

3. Manually remove any extra soil to ensure an even 6” x 2” slice of soil. Place into clean pail.

4. At each sub-sample location collect soil hardness information with a penetrometer. Record maximum hardness from the 0-6” and the 6-18” depth on the Submission Form.

5.  Repeat steps 1-4 to collect the remainder of the sub-samples. Mix thoroughly and place 4-6 full cups of soil (one quart) into a clearly labeled Ziploc bag. Keep cool. Submit soil sample and submission form promptly.

NOTE: Please contact lab for sampling instructions before sampling for Bulk Density.

Important information regarding changes to shipping and packaging protocols

Each individual sample needs to be double bagged prior to packaging and shipping. Packing material such as crumpled paper or bubble wrap must be placed in the box with the samples to prevent sample movement and spillage during shipping. For more details on proper packaging and shipping instructions, see our Guide to Prohibited, Domestic Regulated and Quarantine Areas.

There are certain counties in the U.S. where soil should neither be packaged nor shipped. Soil received from these counties will be destroyed without processing. For a complete list of prohibited counties see our Guide to Prohibited, Domestic Regulated and Quarantine Areas.