Soil Analysis

All plants obtain the nutrients they need to survive from the soil. Although soil contains many minerals, having plant-available nutrients at sufficient levels is not always guaranteed.

A soil sample taken from a specific field or land area is analyzed in a laboratory to examine its physical properties and nutrient content in detail. This analysis process is indispensable for selecting the most suitable crop and achieving high-quality, high-yield harvests by creating a balanced fertilization plan. Through analysis, the nutrients required by the soil are determined and unnecessary fertilizer use is prevented. This helps avoid environmental damage and soil degradation caused by incorrect fertilization practices.

Instead of random and low-efficiency use of agricultural lands in Türkiye, soil analysis aims to achieve sustainable and high-yield agricultural production. By determining the nutrient content and physical characteristics of the soil, it becomes possible to identify which crops will provide the highest yield.

In soils that are not analyzed periodically, excessive fertilizer use can lead to soil structure degradation, while insufficient fertilization can reduce yields—clearly demonstrating the necessity of soil analysis.

Soil samples can be collected at any suitable time of the year depending on the purpose, provided weather conditions are appropriate. During sampling, the soil should not be excessively dry or wet. If samples are taken from non-homogeneous soil masses, the soil should be thoroughly mixed.

Basic tools used for soil sampling:

Shovels and spades are commonly used; however, if the soil is dry and samples are taken from depths of 30–60 cm, probes or augers are preferred. Sampling equipment must be free of rust.

After determining sampling points, surface weeds and residues are removed. A V-shaped pit is dug, one side is smoothed, and a 3–4 cm thick slice is taken with a spade. Edges of the slice are trimmed.

Samples collected from all points using the same method are combined by depth. Stones, plant residues, and non-representative materials (glass, plastic, etc.) are removed. From the homogenized soil, a minimum of 2 kg is taken and promptly delivered to the laboratory.

Soil samples taken from the same depth and homogenized are placed into clean plastic or cloth bags and sealed. Label information must be written clearly and permanently both inside and outside the bag. Otherwise, mixed samples may lead to inaccurate results.

To obtain reliable results from soil analysis, the sample must accurately represent the field. Improper sampling can lead to incorrect soil interpretation, under- or over-fertilization, and reduced yields.

Areas Where Samples Should Not Be Taken:

Various parameters can be tested to determine soil fertility levels. Basic analyses are usually sufficient to understand soil structure and nutrient content.

Detailed analyses are required for soil improvement practices, increased importance of micronutrients in some crops, soil contamination testing, and academic research.