Plant Nematology Laboratory
573-884-9118
Population contours in this map of
a five-acre field vary from red, 8,000 soybean cyst nematode eggs per 100 cubic
centimeters of soil, or about 1/2 cup, to zero, blue. Sample soil in a zigzag
pattern to ensure a representative sample.
Submitting samples
Note
Proper collection of samples is extremely important.
Collecting samples
If a soil test is to provide meaningful results, the soil sample must be representative
of the entire area to be tested.
Read instructions before taking samples
- Take samples when soil is moist. Collect one pint of soil for each sample.
- When sampling fields in row crops, take samples to represent the top 8 inches
of soil. When possible, sample directly in the root zone.
- For pastures, lawns, and other areas in sod, take samples of only the top
5 inches of soil.
- For shrubs, each sample should be composed of soil taken from three or more
places in the area. Even when the sample is to be collected from one shrub, take
soil from three or more places around the plant. Collect the sample to represent
the top 6 inches of soil. Call the laboratory for instructions on sampling trees.
- Put soil in a plastic bag and close bag tightly.
Special instructions for soybean cyst nematode samples
- When sampling for diagnostic purposes (is the nematode present) collect soil
from the margins of the area where plants are showing symptoms or where the nematode
is most likely to be introduced into a field.
- When sampling for management purposes, soil should be collected over the entire
field and a subsample of one pint of soil submitted to the laboratory. For a representative
sample, collect the soil from 20 or more places in the sampling area. Divide large
fields into sampling areas of about 10 acres each, mix together, and send one
composite sample from each area. Samples should not represent more than 40 acres.
Care of samples
- Nematodes are sensitive to heat. Do not leave samples in the sun or other
areas of high temperature. Do not allow samples to dry out.
Packaging and mailing samples
- Mark the sample bag with your name and the name or number of the sampling
area. Place in a mailing box.
- Fill out the Nematode Soil Sample Submission Form as
completely as possible. Indicate soil type designation as follows
- Sandy
1
- Sandy Loam
2
- Clay Loam
3
- Clay
4
- Send samples to:
Plant Nematology Laboratory
23 Mumford Hall
Columbia, MO 65211
Updated 10/10/07
