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Sampling Instructions
It is vital that samples are taken correctly to
ensure that the desired analysis proceeds accurately and without
delay.
Various tests require different types of samples:
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pH, Salts and Nutrients:
Randomly collect 40 cores to a
depth of 75mm (3”) at regular intervals over the whole area. At
least 400g of soil is needed. One or two large cores is not
adequate to give an accurate result. Dispatch as soon as
possible.
-
Leaf Tissue:
Collect fresh clippings from the grass catcher and place in a
strong paper bag. Keep cool until mailed. At least 250g is
required. Dispatch as soon as possible.
-
Disease Assessment:
Take a sample 75-100mm (3-4”) diameter and
50mm (2”) deep from the edge of the damaged area. The sample
should include affected and good turf. Wrap each sample tightly
to prevent sand movement and clearly label. Refrigerate until
dispatch by overnight post or Courier.
-
Nematode Assessment:
For sampling defined areas, take 20 small
cores 75mm deep (3”) taken from the edge of the affected areas
in order to make one sample (at least 250g of soil is needed).
If the area tested is not well-defined, or if making a general
check, take multiple cores from across affected areas to give a
good representation of the nematode population across the area,
not isolated populations. Wrap each sample separately and
clearly label. Refrigerate until dispatch by overnight post or
Courier.
-
Water:
Prior to collecting sample allow the
irrigation system or bore to run for 30 minutes. Collect the
sample from the pump or sprinkler during operation. Rinse out a
soft drink bottle and lid several times with the water to be
tested. Fill the bottle completely and seal. Use tape around
the cap to prevent leakage. At least 600ml is needed.
Refrigerate until dispatch by overnight post or Courier.
-
Suitability Testing (includes drainage,
particle distribution, porosity etc.):
Take 20-30 sub samples from around the
heap (top, middle, inside). Combine into one sample & quarter
if necessary to obtain the required size (at least 1.5kg).
Quartering involves spreading the mixed sample to an even depth,
dividing into quarters, discarding two diagonal corners and
re-mixing the remainder. If testing existing turf, take 15-20
large cores (2” plugs) from different locations within the
sample area and combine to form one sample. Dispatch samples by
normal post or Courier.
Ensure all samples are well labelled with a
waterproof marker and enclose submission sheet or an explanatory
letter detailing sample location, situation, date taken, tests
required, symptoms/problem and contact details.
Send all samples to
Sportsturf Consultants
45 Westerfield Drive
Notting Hill VIC 3168
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