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Extension Services: Soil Biology Tests and Training Programs

Situations:  
 Useful for soils that have poor nutrient contents, particularly those subjected to disturbance activities.

  
Interpretations:  
Results will be based on "Active" rather than Total Biological Populations in the soil.

Sampling Time, Location, and Replications:
We will analyze samples sent at any time of the year or during any stage of the growing season. Soil Biology Tests are sensitive to field environment, time of the year, and disturbance. Sampling is highly recommended after one or two months of lime, fertilizers, compose, or manure applications. It is always recommended NOT TO sample the border of the target areas to avoid “Border Effects” and NOT TO take samples from the same location.  Samples can be collected with core or shovel from the upper 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 centimeters). If interested in repeating Soil Biology Tests annually, it is recommended to collect samples at the same time of the year.
To control cost, minimum one soil sample is recommended for every change in soil property (brown clay or grey sandy loam), every topography (hills or flats), or land use (pasture or cropping). If the field design involves many blocks and sections, divide the field in portions and sample each portion every year until satisfaction is achieved.
A representative small volume (250 ml; approximately one cup) is required for each sample.  Place each sample in separate plastic bag and secure contents to avoid sample contamination.  With each sample, clear information is needed such as title, date, and the required Soil Biology Test.

 
Applications:  
Achieving proper soil balance required management programs that take in the consideration the main soil function components: available plant nutrients and optimal activity of soil biological communities. These soil managements should not be applied at the same time. First management program is to balance soil pH by applying the appropriate amounts of lime recommended by Soil Chemistry Tests. Second and after six month of recalibration period, fertilizers should be applied according to Soil Chemistry Test recommendation. Third and after one to two month of maturation, “Soil Mycorrhizal Inoculum” as “phosphorus biofertilizers” or Rhizobium inoculation as “nitrogen biofertilizers” should be applied with seed before germination or with seedling before planting. Other Soil Biology Tests may act as indicators for soil contamination.
Shipping:  
Samples may be shipped in a cardboard box at room temperature. Ground shipment is acceptable if less than seven days. Ship samples to:
Dr. Abid Al-Agely, 2169 McCarty Hall-A, Soil Microbiology, Gainesville, FL 32611
Fee:  
Tests can be ordered as comprehensive (10 procedures) or individual (one or more procedures). Charge per sample is $ 275 for the comprehensive or $ 30 for each individual test.
© Soil Microbiology, 2169 McCarty Hall A, PO Box 110290, Gainesville, FL  32611- 0290, USA
Telephone:  352 392 1951 Ext 220, Fax:  352 392 3902