Soil Sampling
The proper soil sampling is of particular importance. It should be planned well and carried out as follows:
Site composed of 3 soil types
Incorrect soil sampling
Correct soil sampling
The Proper Timing of Soil Sampling
To systemically assess soil fertility, the soil should be sampled in a state of dynamic equilibrium (steady state). Dynamic equilibrium is established 6 to 8 weeks after the application of management measures (e.g. tillage, input of mineral/organic substances). Favourable moments for soil sampling are often before or after harvesting (before stubble breaking) and in spring. The soil must not be too soggy, the moisture level should allow passage of the ground. Nevertheless, for acute questions or problems, soil samples can be taken at any moment.
Temporary Storage of Soil Samples
If it is not possible to ship the sample immediately, the sample should be stored as follows:
- Sample sealed in the freezer (storage up to 3 months)
- Sample sealed in the fridge (storage up to 1 week)
- Unsealed sample stored in a dust-free, dry room at room temperature (storage up to 1 month). Caution: pets and rodents may cause contamination of the sample.
Shipment of the Sample
Close the sample carefully and ship it along with the assignment form to the delivery address below. Shipping should not exceed 2 to 3 days. You’re also kindly welcomed to deliver the samples in person.
Delivery address:
TB Unterfrauner GmbH
Rochuspark
Erdbergstraße 10/33
1030 Vienna
Austria
The results will be available about six to eight weeks after arrival of the soil sample at TB Unterfrauner GmbH.