Use a step-in fence post as an ultra-DIY penetrometer. Step the post in with your full body weight, as if inserting for a fencing layout. Barring stones or other impermeable materials you should get an impression of the ease of insertion. The easier it is, the better the soil structure. Test is equivalent to ‘Spading Ease’.
What to record
- A number from 1-5 where:
- 1. Very Hard – ‘OMG’ – might take more than full body-weight to fully insert
- 2. Hard
- 3. Moderate
- 4. Easy
- 5. Very easy – ‘Like butter’ – no resistance
- Photos
- 1. Very Hard – ‘OMG’ – might take more than full body-weight to fully insert
- 2. Hard
- 3. Moderate
- 4. Easy
- 5. Very easy – ‘Like butter’ – no resistance
Equipment
- Electric fence post, step-in fence post, pig-tail post, soil probe.
How to do the test
