Pretty much covered everything. Be careful with soil maps provided by the USDA and NRCS, they are a very general representation.

We used the stratification method that kevin1 mentioned in soils class, but by also using a soil hydrometer that you can buy on the web. A little more accurate than the measuring of the layers, but both will get you close enough.

The best thing to do is to take a representative soil sample from the plot and to send a sample to a lab, they usually don't need anymore than about a quart jar full. They will send you a report of the soil analysis that shows mineral defficiencies, and excesses, pH, bulk density, cation exchange capacity, etc... These tests usually run about $50. They usually also provide a fertillizer/ammendment recommendation based on what crop you want to grow on the soil you provided the sample for.


Hope that helps,

Dan Rotlisberger
CSU Fresno Plant Science Major