Crop Clinic

Subdivide fields into units no greater than 10 acres (4 ha); subdivision  may also be necessary to take account of  differences in soil type and previous cropping history.

Submit a field plan  to show any sub divisions . Using a narrow -bladed fern trowel or “cheesecorer”, take samples at least 1” (2.5 cm) across and 8-10” (20-25 cm) deep, randomly on a “W” configuration; the sampling tool should be driven vertically downwards into the soil to obtain the sample.

Take enough samples to provide about (1 kg) soil. Clean the sampling tool between sampling different fields or parts of fields.

Place soil from each sampling unit into a heavy gauge polythene bag; secure bag with a tie to prevent cross-contamination. Record details relevant to sample on the bag. Some of these nematodes are very fragile; rough handling of soil during sampling and transportation may jeopardise the results of the test