Instructions on how to take a soil sample for analysis.

Prepared: 2010-06-25

I. PREPARATION PHASE

a) Prior to beginning the sampling, insure that all necessary materials are in hand.  We recommend a plastic bucket, wooden or glass mixing rod, proper sampling tool and proper sample bags.

b) Prepare a map of the general area to be sampled, a map of the specific field to be sampled including topographically points of interest and where the samples will be taken if more than one sample is taken from the same field. 

c) Label each bag before going to the field to correspond with the map drawn.

d) It is easier to take samples when the weather is dry.

II. SAMPLE PHASE

a) Eliminate non-typical areas for sampling when possible.  These could be high points in the field, low wet areas, dead furrows, headlands and end rows.

b) Sampling of each field should be done in a manner that would coincide with the ability to treat that area.

c) In fields that are very similar, one sample can generally represent 15 to 20 acres.

d) Select the center point for the sample you will be taking.

e) Pace 15-20, paces from the center point and take 10 cores from area equal distance from the center in a complete circle.  Put each core into the plastic bucket.

f) Prior to taking each core, insure that all trash has been stripped away from the point where the core will be taken.

g) Sampling depth should coincide with the depth of the main root system.

For Example:

 ORCHARDS would probably be about 10 to 15 inches deep
 VEGETABLES would be 6 to 8 inches deep
 LAWN and TURF would be 2 to 4 inches deep

h) Thoroughly mix all cores in the bucket with the mixing rod.

i) Fill the sample bag to the recommend level and seal the bag appropriately.  Discard balance of soil and clean all equipment thoroughly before taking next sample.

III. DELIVERY PHASE

a) Accumulate all samples and pack them thoroughly and protect them in a sturdy box and ship to the address below.

b) Cost of the soil sample will be shared between ECFCO and the client, this is B$50.00 per sample.

c) Send all sample to:
 In BARBADOS deliver all samples to:
EASTERN CARIBBEAN FERTILIZER COMPANY
   (BARBADOS) LIMITED
Uplands Factory
St. John, BARBADOS
Phone: 246-433-2740  /  Fax: 246-433-5739
  Email: ecf@caribsurf.com. RESULTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

a) Under normal circumstances, we should be able to return to you by email the results and recommendation within 14 days after the samples have been sent to Florida.

b) Any questions on any above procedures can be directed by phone or fax to Mr. DAVID CHRISTOPHERSON at the above numeral III letter E.