A quick field tool for assessing soil health and plant performance - structure, drainage, biology and rooting conditions.
Dig one spade of soil from a paddock and answer each question by picking the picture-description that looks most like what's in your spade. Higher score = healthier soil.
A guidance tool used by Te Whenua Ora o Taranaki - not an official audit. For any concern, please seek professional advice.
How it works
Dig one representative spade of soil.
For each question, tap the description that best matches the sample.
Scores are multiplied by their weighting - a higher total is better.
The assessment
Tap the description that best matches what you see - not sure? Pick the closest one.
Soil texture
How workable and balanced the soil feels in your hand.
Weight ×3
Not answered yetTap a description below, or drag the slider.
Soil structure
Whether the soil forms stable crumbs rather than hard lumps.
Weight ×3
Not answered yetTap a description below, or drag the slider.
Soil porosity
Visible holes and root channels that let air and water move.
Weight ×3
Not answered yetTap a description below, or drag the slider.
Number and colour of soil mottles
Grey or rusty blotches that hint at poor drainage.
Weight ×2
Not answered yetTap a description below, or drag the slider.
Soil colour
Colour that suits the soil type and organic matter.
Weight ×2
Not answered yetTap a description below, or drag the slider.
Earthworms
How many worms are active in the spade sample.
Weight ×3
Not answered yetTap a description below, or drag the slider.
Soil smell
The smell from a freshly opened sample.
Weight ×2
Not answered yetTap a description below, or drag the slider.
Potential rooting depth
How deep roots can grow before hitting a hard layer.
Weight ×3
Not answered yetTap a description below, or drag the slider.
Surface ponding
How long water sits on the surface after rain.
Weight ×3
Not answered yetTap a description below, or drag the slider.
Surface relief
Condition of the surface - crusting, pugging or erosion.
Weight ×1
Not answered yetTap a description below, or drag the slider.
