User

Soil beginner

Difficulty/Levels

Level 1

Data Type

• 1-3 Rating
• Number of worms

What is the meaning and importance?

The biological activity is an important factor indicating the quality and health of the soil. A healthy soil has more biological activity, meaning more bugs improving nutrient cycling and availability and also working to decompose soil organic matter, thus creating more nutrients. Also we can group the organic matter content into this category, which tells you about the decaying plant matter in the soil.

What is the method for collection?

1. Dig a volume of ca. 20x20x20cm
2. Count the worms in the soil
3. Note any additional biological activity (e.g. bugs, animal feaces, cocoons, bug nests, a.o.)

How long does it take to collect?

5 minutes: One data point

Evaluation Parameters

(If applicable: 1=good; 2=fair; 3=poor)

1: More than 5: Many earthworms are present

2: Between 2 and 5: A few earthworms are present

3: Less than 2: Few to no earthworms were found

—> Take notes if you also notice other biological activity (E.G. bugs, animal faeces, coccoons, bug nests, a.o.)