For example, a separate sample should be submitted for an area that has been in a garden and one that has been lawn. Obtain a clean pail or similar container. Clear away the surface litter or grass. With a spade or soil auger, dig a small amount of soil to a depth of 6 inches. Place the soil in the clean pail.
Repeat steps d through f until the required number of samples have been collected.
Mix the samples together thoroughly. From the mixture, take the sample that will be sent for analysis. Do not dry before sending. If you are using a home soil testing kit, follow the above steps for taking your sample. Follow the directions in the test kit carefully.