Biological - for soil health and fertilizer/amendment management (examples include organic matter, soil protein, soil respiration, active C, potentially mineralizable nitrogen, and phospholipid fatty acid ).Physical - for soil health and irrigation management (examples include texture, bulk density, available water holding capacity, soil surface hardness, and aggregate stability).Micronutrients include zinc, boron, manganese, copper, iron, and chlorine. Macronutrients generally include nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, calcium, and Figure 1. Chemical - for fertilizer and amendment management (examples include macro and micronutrients, pH, salinity, and sodium absorption ratio).Below are some of the most common properties measured for agricultural applications: Each category includes many properties, with some properties having multiple procedures for testing. Soil properties can be broken into three broad categories: chemical, physical, and biological. Many soil properties can be measured, with some being more practical than others for making crop management decisions.

Proper soil testing often helps optimize investments in fertilizer and amendments and influences several other agricultural inputs. Soil is one key factor that determines crop productivity levels. Soil testing is also a useful diagnostic tool to identify problems related to excessive levels of nutrients and salts, sodicity, high pH, low organic matter, and poor drainage. Soil tests can indicate whether plant nutrients are deficient and, if so, what amounts are needed for optimum growth. Regular soil sampling, testing, and associated guidance on fertilization and soil amendments help develop and maintain more productive and healthy soils. Why conduct soil sampling for crops? The answer is simple and intuitive for most involved in agriculture. Soil Sampling Guide for Crops Why Sample?

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