Teaching Organic Farming and Gardening

Soil Physical Properties

Unit 2.1 | 31
Instructor’s Demonstration 2 Outline

Demonstration 2: Soil Pit Examination

for the instructor

DeMonstratIon outlIne

A. Determine Approximate Textural Classification of

Soil by Feel

B. Identify Distinct Soil Horizons

1. A Horizon and what defines it


2. B Horizon and what defines it


3. C Horizon and what defines it


4. Identify indicators of soil disturbance (e.g., tillage)

C. Describe/Define the Type(s) of Soil Structure

Observed

1. Describe general soil structure and how it is created


2. Identify and provide examples of soil aggregates and
   how they form

Instructor overvIew

In this demonstration students

examine the soil profile and various

soil properties exposed in a shallow

soil excavation. Discuss the soil

profile and how the soil properties

observed affect the use of the soil

for farming, gardening, and other

purposes.

MaterIals

• Shovel and Pic mattock (to dig pit)

• Munsell soil color book

• Water bottle for moistening soil

• pH kit

sIte PreParatIon

Several hours   before  the demonstra-

tion    dig a   pit approximately   2–4 feet    

deep    (or until   distinct    soil    horizons    

are observed).  For ease,   the pit may be  

triangular  in  shape   and stepped.    Plan    

to  have    the soil    profile in  full    sun at  the 

time    of  the demonstration.

PreParatIon tIMe

Approximately   1   hour    

DeMonstratIon tIMe

1   hour