Field Assessment Using A Hand Texture Chart
Hand analysis, whilst an arbitrary technique, is an extremely simple and effective means to rapidly assess and classify a soil's physical condition. Correctly executed the procedure allows for rapid and frequent assessment of soil characteristics with little or no equipment. It is thus an extremely useful tool for identifying spatial variation both within and between plots (fields) as well as identifying progressive changes and boundaries between soil classes and orders.
The method involves taking a small sample of soil, sufficient to roll into a ball of approx 2.5 cm diameter, from just below the surface. Using a small drop of water or 'spit' the sample is then moisten to the sticky point (the point at which it begins to adhere to the finger). The ball is then molded to determine its workability and its class according to the steps in the chart opposite.
Read more about this topic: Soil Texture
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