Intensive grid sampling often only include macronutrient analyses. This is helpful, but lacks the resolution of including other soil characteristics, such as micronutrients or soil texture. A previously created ¼ acre grid of the Warrington Irrigation
research farm revealed maps of micronutrients that were as interesting as the macronutrients. However, the patterns in the field did not indicate why there was variation, which could be relate to the original parent material. Sending selected samples off for texture analyses could determine the relationships of particle size to micronutrient analyses. This will also help determine water holding capacity and the potential for nematode infestations across the research farm.

1) Analyze grid soil samples for texture analyses

Soils were previously sampled in 2022 and again in 2024 on a ¼ acre grid sample at the Warrington Irrigation Research Farm in Harbeson, DE. Selected samples from these sets will be sent to the Penn State Soil Testing Lab for textural analyses.

Soil texture data will be entered into ArcGIS software and rasterized using kriging. These spatial maps of soil texture will be compared to macronutrients, micronutrients, and soil pH across the research farm. Relationships will be examined versus sand, silt, and clay content as well as a digital elevation model.

Future projects will be designed around the texture maps at the research farm.

Updated July 24, 2024:
Texture samples had been sampled from a previous grant at the Warrington Irrigation research farm. This allowed for quick shipping of the samples to the Penn State soil testing lab in July, 2024, with expected analyses completion by August 2024.

Grid sampling of texture is not often performed and can potentially be tied to the variable fertility in our coastal soils.