Cayuga County
Education Center
Tel: 315 255-1183
Fax: 315 255-1187
Cooperative Extension
248 Grant Avenue, Suite 1
Auburn, NY 13021-1495
E-mail: cayuga@cornell.edu
Web: www.cce.cornell.edu/cayuga
How to Take and Submit a Soil Sample
Things to know prior to submission:
1. The Cornell Nutrient Analysis Lab (CNAL) requires at least 1.5 cups of representative
soil to perform proper analyses. Make sure that soil is collected from several locations
within the sample site to prevent non-conformities from altering test results. These
collections should be mixed together in a paper or plastic bag or bucket. Problem areas
should be sampled separately.
2. Use proper sampling tools- if a soil probe or augur is not available, use a garden
spade or shovel. Do not used galvanized tools, as they may contaminate the sample.
3. Avoid extremely wet soil conditions unless absolutely necessary. If it is necessary to
sample wet soil, spread the sample in a thin layer on an aluminum pie pan, clean
wrapping paper or waxed paper, and allow to dry out at room temperature. A fan may be
used to speed this process. Do not use heat to hasten drying. DO NOT send wet
samples to the laboratory for analysis. They may leak in the mail, provide inappropriate
results, and delay analysis.
4. Different information sheets are used for assorted clients. Blue (Commercial) forms
are used for commercial agriculture (agronomic, commercial fruit, and commercial
vegetable crops). Yellow (Home Garden) forms are used for home gardens, turf, and
non-commercial ornamental crops.
5. For frequent soil testers: Establish a regular sampling time. For most crops, the soil
should be sampled every 2 to 3 years. For soils under intensive use, as in high-value
cash crops or where nutritional problems persist, the soil should be tested prior to
planting each crop. Fields should be tested at approximately the same time of year.
How to take your soil sample:
1. Make sure soil is sampled to the desired depth as descr