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Kentucky, U.S.A.

In anticipation for my second attempt at growing a big pumpkin, I have asked some korny questions and received some patient answers. Drumrunner and I have lerned how to germinate, pollinate and bury vines. This year we are working on a compost pile that will make some good compost to bury vines. I just wonder what my first question will be??? Hey, I got one..... When should I get the spring soil sample, before I till? After it dries up a little? I haven't do one yet. How important is the dirt off the shovel deal?? Do I have to get packaging just right or can I just get-er-done? Oh well, maybe I come up with a thought provoking question....later! BSD,David

1/19/2011 10:04:40 PM

Owensboro, Ky.

BSD, in yer county there is a County Ext. Agent, who has a tool, to take soil samples with!!! Ask him for it, and use it as soon as yer soil is thawed!!! Don't take no for an answer!!!!! He prbly has 3 of em!!! Yes, sample, b/4 till!!! and as soon as possible, some of the ammendments take a while to "get er dun"!!! The good soil analysis sites will give you sampling advice!!!ie...how to!! and also give ammendment advice for AG's!!! Peace, Wayne
Hopefully, we will learn a few thing in Richmond!!!!

1/22/2011 4:22:47 AM

Muddy Waters

Im no Heavy hitter but I know a few farmers.They say to take a pipe like a 1 inch plastic (no metal)pound in the ground 6 to 9 inchs.Remove from ground collect,remove dirt plugs in pipe dump in 1 container.you may need a dowel rod to remove inner plug of soil.take several samples from patch,6-8 small area 40x40 maybe more in a 80x100 area.mix together all plugs & send a coffee cup size sample in a plastic bag to lab.Try not to use metal it can change readings.use new clean equipment.I would do this prior to tilling, add amendments then till as early as possible,

1/22/2011 8:24:52 AM

Kentucky, U.S.A.

Yeah, been putting off getting in touch with them, and asking what they can do for me. Not big on that 'asking for help' concept!!! Great advice. I actually dug up some soil (with the shovel) awhile back. Maybe sitting around in the bucket for two months it has neutalized?! Look forward to Richmond. I just ordered a few items from EP, hoping there is still room for my tiny order! Thanks, BSD, David

1/22/2011 8:30:15 AM

Rapid City, SD

http://www.al-labs-west.com/sections/anservices/sampling

kepp it simple............keep it fun

grow eb BIG!

matt

1/23/2011 10:55:52 AM

Central Ca

western laboratories. AL is in my town but western does a better and much faster job. I'm willing to pay for that. Kevin

1/23/2011 8:27:17 PM

Owensboro, Ky.

HHG, local county extension agent here in Ky, has several soil probes made of Stainless Steel, if they are properly cleaned & sterilized, shouldn't they work as soil probes w/out contamination of soil samples?
Heat...have heard that AL, western also has a man who is very helpful for AG growers? Peace, Wayne

1/25/2011 2:04:42 AM

Kentucky, U.S.A.

What if I use PVC water grade plastic pipe and make a plog puller???? I would guess after I was satisfied with any fabrications to it(bevelled the leading end a little) I would clean it with bleach, let it dry wipe with a clean paper towel??? Whatcha think? BSD,David

1/25/2011 9:29:49 PM

New Zealand

cunning plan brother cunning plan!

1/26/2011 4:05:34 AM

New Zealand

so cunning in fact you could pin a tail on it and call it a weasel

1/26/2011 4:07:18 AM

Kentucky, U.S.A.

Well, if there's no concerns with the PVC plug puller idea, I have an appointment with the garage today! BSD, David

1/29/2011 8:04:41 AM

Muddy Waters

Metal meaning galvanized, I havent seen to many stainless steel pipes laying around my garage.Just trying to keep cost down.Go easy on Bleach never go heavier than 10% with 90% water its toxic at higher levels and residue can remain on tools.More is not better with Bleach!!

1/29/2011 9:14:30 AM

Kentucky, U.S.A.

Thanks, HHG

1/29/2011 10:29:31 AM

Rockfield, KY

I think I will bring a BIG notebook and plenty of pens as it looks like I will be taking lots of notes in Richmond for BSD!!! Thanks for all the help & input! We really do appreciate it.

2/9/2011 11:21:24 AM