To get the most accurate and helpful results from our Microscopic Soil Biology Analysis, it’s important to collect and send a soil sample the right way. Here’s how to do it:

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What You’ll Need
	•	A clean trowel, small shovel, or soil probe
	•	A clean plastic bag or container (not metal)
	•	A permanent marker to label the sample
	•	Optional: gloves to keep things clean

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Step-by-Step Sampling Instructions

1️⃣ Choose Your Sampling Area
Select the spot you want tested — garden bed, lawn, field, compost pile, or worm bin. If you have multiple areas, take separate samples for each.

2️⃣ Remove Surface Material
Brush aside mulch, grass clippings, or debris to expose the bare soil.

3️⃣ Take a Sample
Dig down about 4–6 inches deep (or to root depth if known). Scoop out a handful of soil. If testing a larger area, take 3–5 small scoops from different spots and mix them together in a clean container to get an average sample.

4️⃣ Prepare Your Sample
Place about 1/2 cup (250 ml) of the mixed soil into a clean, resealable plastic bag or container. Do not use metal tools or containers, as they may affect biological readings.

5️⃣ Label It Clearly
Provide the following information: 
Name:
Email:
Date:
Date collected:
Sample location:
Sample type  (soil, compost, worm castings,  extract, tea, ect.):
Recent inputs  (compost, fertilizer, extract, worm castings, tea, etc.): 
 If sending multiple samples, make sure each one is clearly marked.

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 Important Notes
	•	Send your sample quickly — within 24–48 hours of collection — to preserve microbial activity.
        •	Contact us prior to sending so we can watch for sample or possible pick-up.
	•	Don’t sample wet soil. Let it drain slightly if it’s waterlogged, but don’t dry it out completely.
	•	Avoid sampling immediately after applying compost tea, fertilizer, pesticides, or heavy irrigation — this can skew results.
	•	Time of day and season matter — early morning best.

You can mail your sample directly to us, or if you’re local, we may be able to arrange a pick-up depending on your location.

Payment can be made through e-transfer, cheque, cash or credit card through Square.

We’ll also be attending select Seedy Saturdays and local markets across Vancouver Island throughout the year — a great opportunity to drop off your sample in person, ask questions, and learn more about soil biology!

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Follow-Up Testing

Soil biology changes with weather, inputs, and plant activity. For the best insight into your soil’s health and progress, we recommend follow-up testing 

Have questions?   
HOW TO TAKE A SOIL SAMPLE FOR BIOLOGICAL TESTING
