Arrange samples by date received, county and grower in sets of 100.
Assign a 7 digit lab number to each sample. The 2 left hand digits correspond to the month. The remaining 5 digits are assigned consecutively within the month as the samples are arranged in the sets. The 3 right hand digits designate the position of the sample within the set of 100 samples.
Place samples into the set. Sample information on the boxes and record sheets should be compared for agreement. Any special analyses should be noted by lab number on a separate sheet of paper as well as other special requests.
Samples received in a damaged condition, missing samples, or duplicated sample numbers should be annotated on the record sheet. Samples received without paperwork should have a record sheet completed from information on the sample box if possible.
Within each set, place Check sample boxes at approximately positions 40, 60, and 80 and note the position number shown on a blue Check soil record sheet.
After a complete set is arranged, box tops should be removed with the exception of 1 flap of the first sample in the set. The date received and lab number of the first sample should be written on this flap.
Place samples in drying racks and allow to dry.
After drying, crush and screen samples through a 10 mesh screen. Collect screened samples and return to the original box. Samples are now ready for analysis.
Following analysis, place samples into storage racks for 1 month from the date of analysis to allow for recheck if necessary. After that time, samples may be discarded.
Soil from Marion and Horry must be treated by heating at 121oC for 2 hr.
