Penetrometer

A way to assess soil compaction. Soils become more open/easier to penetrate as health improves. Lower compaction (tightness) is associated with well structured soil – as soil structure in the long term is a product of biological activity.

Tip: you may wish to ask a friend to video the process of inserting the penetrometer into the soil. This will mean you don’t have to remember the reading you get.

What to record


  • Value PSI
  • Photos

Equipment


  • Soil Penetrometer (dial)
  • Penetrologger

How to do the test

1. Decide whether you want to test the field more generally (under the W walk category), or repeatedly test a specific sample site over time (using the GPS feature to find the same sample location). Read more info here on how to do a W walk.

2. Push penetrometer into soil with straight arms, as far as possible

3. Record on the app the highest value you see as you insert probe (videoing the process can be helpful if practical)

Resources

Use code ‘SOIL#1’ for a discount when buying the penetrometer from Harvest Agri

Video: Using a penetrometer to detect soil compaction

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