Sample Collection Instructions

For compost samples:

Take 1 tsp from a minimum of 5 different areas from a small compost pile, or 20 different areas from a large windrow, from various locations and depths within the pile and combine them into a sandwich-sized plastic bag.

For cultivated beds and pots:

Take 1 tsp of soil from 5 randomly chosen areas that are representative of the whole area you want tested and combine them into a sandwich-sized plastic bag.

Take samples from below the crop/plant you want to focus on for the results. Dig a small hole 3-4 inches deep in the space midway between the stem of the plant and the edge of its canopy, aiming for the middle of the plant's root zone.

For field soil:

Take 3 tsp from each of 5 different representative areas per acre, selecting these at random and ensuring that they are well distributed over the area of the field and combine them into a plastic bag.

Avoid boundary areas or any areas that are not representative of the field like a ridgeline or a depression.

For liquid samples:

Use a clean, non-breakable 8 oz. container (like a plastic water bottle with a screw cap).

Fill the container ⅓ full of the liquid (e.g. compost tea) and tightly secure cap or lid.

For ALL samples:

Do not fill the container more than halfway with material. To reduce the amount of sample material, you may combine and thoroughly mix the sample material separately, in a sterile container, and then place a smaller amount of the mixture in the sealable bag.

Seal the bag with the air left inside it. DO NOT squeezethe air from the bag. Your soil biology needs oxygen for the trip.

Write on the OUTSIDE of the container with permanent marker:

  • Sample name
  • Date sample was collected
  • Type of sample - compost, cultivated soil, field, etc.
  • Type of plants you want to grow in the soil

How to submit:

Mail to: Pott Farms, c/o Robbin Pott, 12280 Bunton Rd, Willis MI, 48191.

Soil biology may change when conditions change, so it is best that the evaluation happen as soon as
possible. Please choose overnight shipping if at all possible.

You may choose to deliver your samples. Please email robbin@pottfarms.org to arrange drop off.

Tests must be paid for before soil evaluation will be completed.