Parameters affecting soil testing:
a) Sampling the soil: must be representative of the area.
b) Tools: uniform slice, same volume of soil should be taken with augers, spades, khurpee, power driven sampler etc.
c) Area to be sampled: 5-20 sample/acre based on appearance, slope, drainage, soil types, past treatments.
d) Depth of sampling: plow depth (6” to 9”) depending on the type of crops.
e) Time of sampling: just prior to seeding or after harvesting (or when the crop is growing)