SOIL AND PLANT ANALYSIS (1+1)

Sampling points

• Uniform fields can be sampled in a simple random, stratified random or in a systematic pattern.


• The soil test result from these sampling plans, provides an estimate of the entire population of possible soil test results.


• As the number of cores increases, the error or chance of inaccurate estimate of the average soil test value decreases. With a simple random system, each soil core is selected separately, randomly of previously drawn units.


• A stratified random sample is taken from a field that has been divided into several subunits or quadrants from which simple cores are obtained.


• The systematic sample is a further progression is an attempt to ensure complete field coverage, similar to the change from the simple random to the stratified random.


• Sample cores are taken at regularly spaced intervals in all directions.