Soil testing steps for laterite land

Soil testing is a crucial first step before cultivating on laterite land. It provides essential information on the soil's pH (acidity level), organic carbon content, and available nutrients (N, P, K), which guides all fertility and amendment decisions.

Here is a step-by-step guide to collecting a soil sample:

1. Gather Your Tools: You will need a clean bucket, a spade or soil auger, several small plastic bags, and a permanent marker.
2. Select Sampling Spots: Divide your field into uniform areas based on slope, color, and previous crop history. Avoid taking samples from unusual spots like old fence lines, compost piles, or areas where water collects.
3. Collect the Sample:
   • Scrape away any surface litter (leaves, stones).
   • Dig a V-shaped hole about 6 inches (15 cm) deep.
   • From one side of the hole, take a uniform slice of soil about 1 inch thick, from the top to the bottom.
   • Collect 8-10 such slices from different random spots within a single uniform area and place them all in your clean bucket.
4. Mix and Prepare the Final Sample:
   • Break up any soil clumps in the bucket and mix all the collected slices thoroughly. Remove any stones, roots, or debris.
   • Spread the mixed soil on a clean sheet of paper or plastic and divide it into four equal quarters.
   • Discard two opposite quarters. Mix the remaining two quarters together. Repeat this process until you have about half a kilogram (500g) of soil. This is your final composite sample.
5. Package and Submit:
   • Air-dry the soil sample in the shade for a day (do not dry it in the sun).
   • Place the dried sample in a clean plastic bag.
   • Label the bag clearly with your name, address, farm location/field number, and the crop you intend to grow.
   • Submit the sample to your nearest agricultural university or government soil testing laboratory.