This document summarizes a soil sampling demonstration conducted on an 8.5 acre bermudagrass hay meadow. 12 individual soil subsamples were taken from across the field using a grid sampling system and an iPad application. Each subsample was tested separately, showing variations in soil fertility across the field. This reinforced the importance of taking a representative soil sample with multiple subsamples rather than a single sample, as recommended guidelines state 15-20 subsamples are needed per sample to represent no more than 20 acres. The results varied widely between locations, with a standard deviation of 70 pounds of phosphorus and 180 pounds of potassium. Proper soil sampling is crucial to avoid inaccurate results and improper fertilizer rates that can impact costs, crop yields and

1. See*, B.S.1
1. County Extension Agent – Agriculture, University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service, Yellville, AR 72687
Soil Sampling Demonstration
Abstract
Soil sample types in Marion County primarily fit into
these categories': home gardens, home lawns, turf,
pasture's and hay meadows. Soil testing guidelines
recommend that 15 to 20 subsamples be taken per
soil sample and that one sample not represent more
than 20 acres. In reality this number of subsamples is
rarely taken by clienetle. As a result soil samples can
be inaccurate and unreliable. This can lead to
improper fertilizer rates, which can cost clients
unnecessary expense, cause poor crop yield and it
can have a negative impact on the environment.
A bermudagrass hay meadow was sampled using a
grid sustem. Ag PhD, an iPad application, was used
to set up the sampling grid. The field was
approximatley 8.5 acres and 12 sub samples was
taken from the field. Each sub sample was tested
individually to show the differences in soil fertility
throughout the field. Thus reinforcing the
recommendation of taking a representative soil
sample.
Objective
To demonstrate to clients the importance of taking a soil
sample that is representative of the area being sampled.
Procedures
1) Set sampling grid system on field using AG PhD
Soil Test application for iPad.
2) Collect soil sample from each individual point on
grid system.
3) Mail samples to University of Arkansas
Cooperative Extension Service Soil Testing and
Research Lab in Marianna, AR for analysis.
4) Compile results and share with clientele.
Results
Field Average of All Sampling Locations
Soil P: 83 +/- 70 lbs/AC
Soil K: 273 +/- 180 lbs/AC
Soil PH: 6.5 +/- .75
Acknowledgements
The author would like to thank the following:
• Kevin Flippin and Quarry Mtn. Ranch of Flippin, AR
• Katherine Teague - University of Arkansas CEA - Agriculture -
Washington County