Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
a laboratory that is familiar with your soils and stick with that lab. A com-
mon complaint from fruit growers is that testing results from different labor-
atories are not the same, even for the same sample. Use consistent sampling
procedures and the same testing facility. Cooperative Extension offices and
Ministry of Agriculture offices can usually provide recommendations for a
reliable testing laboratory in your area.
HOW TO COLLECT A SOIL SAMPLE
Collect samples within tree rows throughout the orchard. In large
orchards, sample each planting block separately. For bush fruits and
high-density tree plantings, collect samples midway between plants.
1.
Scrape away any vegetation, mulch, or organic litter on the soil
surface.
2.
Using a soil sampling tube or a trowel, gather samples to a depth
of 8 inches midway between the trunk and drip line of the tree.
3.
Dump each sample into a clean, plastic pail. Collect about 20 to
30 samples per acre for larger orchards and at least 1 quart of
soil in small orchards. Thoroughly mix the soil in the bucket to
create a composite sample for the laboratory.
Tissue Testing
By far the most reliable method of determining the nutrient status of peren-
nial fruit crops is to analyze the leaves and petioles for mineral nutrient con-
centrations, a process called tissue testing or foliar analysis. As mentioned
above, the results of soil analyses of established orchards are not good indic-
ators of tree health and productivity. Visual observations of growth, leaf col-
