Random Sampling
Random soil sampling is a method used to collect soil samples from different locations
within a field or area in a non-biased manner. The goal is to obtain a representative sample
that reflects the overall soil properties of the area without favouring any specific spot. Here's
how it works and why it's important:
How Random Soil Sampling Works:
1. Divide the Field/Area: The field or plot of interest is divided into smaller, equal-
sized sections or grids.
2. Randomly Select Sampling Points: Points within the grid are chosen randomly,
ensuring that no particular section of the field is given preference. This can be done
using random number generators or other randomization methods.
3. Collect Soil Samples: At each selected random point, soil is collected from a standard
depth (commonly 0-15 cm for agricultural purposes). Multiple samples are often
collected from each point and combined to form a composite sample.
4. Mix and Analyze: The soil samples from different random points are mixed together
to form a composite sample, which is then analyzed for properties such as pH,
nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), organic matter, and other chemical or
physical properties.
Why Random Soil Sampling is Important:
Minimizes Bias: Random selection of points helps avoid bias that may come from
choosing specific locations based on visible features, such as areas that look healthier
or less healthy.
Increases Representativeness: By sampling at random points across the entire field,
the composite sample provides a more accurate representation of the soil's average
properties, rather than just one specific spot.
Supports Better Decision-Making: The data obtained from random soil sampling
helps in making informed decisions regarding fertilizer application, pH adjustment,
irrigation needs, and other agricultural management practices.
Saves Costs: Rather than analyzing soil from every single spot, random sampling
gives a broad overview, which reduces the number of tests needed while still
providing useful information.
Points to NOTE:
12 points in an acre.
The points should be equally distanced from each point. Good representation of the
selected area.
Use a different mapping:
o
o Farm aspects taken into account.
o Areas to be excluded – remember the adjustments from the farmer
E.g; where we have huge rocks
Sampling Journey
1. Collect info on the farmer – booking of the soil test
2. User visits the farm
3. Identifies areas for sampling:
a. Enter the booking id
b. Geolock the location – general location on the map
c. Draw out the sampling areas:
i. Enter farm area in acres:
1. If farm exceeds 4acres, do not provide option to walk
around.
2. If up to 4acres – identify number of crops/plots on the 4acres –
allows you to know the number of sampling maps 1for1.
3. User input: number of plots on up to the 4acres.
4. Map plot 1:
a) Show the map
b) Provide options:
i. Walk around the area – draws the area
ii. Draw boundaries of the farm
5. Exclude the following from the area:
a) Large rocks
b) Lime piles
c) Fertilizer spills
d) Ant hills
e) Gate areas
f) Livestock congregation areas
g) Poorly drained areas
h) Dead furrows
i) Fertilizer bands
j) Old fence rows
k) Structures like houses
l) Large canopy trees
m) Manure pits
n) Paths
6. If there is nothing to exclude, you proceed to sampling points
generation.
7. If there is something to exclude, select zones of exclusion.
8. Present sampling points.
9. Instructions on sampling:
a) Using a soil auger:
i. Scrap the top surface of the soil removing the
surface litter and crop residues.
ii. Using soil auger, rotate the soil auger into the
ground to completely cover the tip of the soil
auger.
iii. Dislodge the soil auger from the ground
iv. Extract the soil collected into a bucket and
proceed to the next sampling point – the
collected point is marked green.
v. Repeat the above processes until all the points
marked red are not visible on the map.
vi. Combine all sampled soil and mix well.
b) Using a hoe/jembe:
i. Scrap the top surface of the soil removing the
surface litter and crop residues.
ii. Dig a v-shaped hole up to around 15 to 20 cm
deep.
iii. Scrap the wall of one side of the v-shaped hole
iv. Extract the soil collected into a bucket and
proceed to the next sampling point – the
collected point is marked green.
v. Repeat the above processes until all the points
marked red are not visible on the map.
vi. Combine all sampled soil and mix well.
c) If only 1 sample, end here, else proceed to other
samples 2,3,4,....n.
d)
ii. Walking around the area – spot on the map, selects the zone
