Title: Conduct a soil test.
Course: Biological Applications in Agriculture (18308-I) > Section: Understanding Principles of Water and Soil Quality

Conducting a soil test should include

- selecting sample sites
- handling soil samples
- describing soil collection methods
- conducting a specific test for nutrient content
- conducting a specific test for biological content
- conducting a pH test
- interpreting the results
- identifying soil amendments
- creating a nutrient management plan.

Process/Skill Questions:

- How are the number and location of samples sites determined?
- What information is provided in a soil analysis report?
- How can a crop’s nutrient needs be determined after reading the soil analysis report?
- How can soil test reports save input costs for farmers and landowners?
- How can soil pH be altered?
- How long does it take for lime or sulfur to neutralize soil pH?
- What are the effects of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium on plant growth?
- What are the essential micronutrients in soil, and how can they affect plant growth?
- What are the differences between organic (e.g., compost, manure) and inorganic (e.g., chemical fertilizer, lime, sulfur, sand) soil amendments?