Sampling Instructions for BeCrop Test

Identify a block with the same crop and management history.
Collect 3 to 6 cores to create a mixed and homogenized soil sample representing the block.
Depth: 5–15 cm (2–6 inches).
Proximity:
- Fruit crops: 60 cm (24 in) from the trunk
- Vineyards & super-intensive systems: 30 cm (12 in) from the plant
- Row crops: in the root zone

Important: Avoid sampling for 3 days after heavy rainfall and do not sample directly under drip emitters.

BeCrop:
- For each sample, fill coded tube provided by Biome Makers approximately halfway with soil (1-3 grams).
- If no coded tube, label a bag and fill with no more than 1/4 cup (10 grams).

BeCrop+: ^{*includes physico-chemical analysis}

Use a labeled bag and fill as follows depending on the destination lab:
- USA lab: fill coded bag provided by Biome Makers to the fill line (2 cups of soil / 500 grams). Do not fill past the fill line
  If no coded bag, label one and fill it with 2 cups of soil (500 grams). No more than 2 1⁄4 cups (550 grams total)
- EU lab: fill coded bag provided by Biome Makers with 150 grams of soil. If no coded bag, label one and fill it with 150 grams.

Note: A mixing bucket is required for BeCrop+ sampling.

Include additional metadata (e.g., soil type, irrigation method) for more comprehensive analysis.

Ship samples immediately after collection to preserve microbial integrity.
Transit Time: Use 1- or 2-day shipping. If samples are in transit for more than 5 cumulative days at room temperature, you must include icepacks.
Short-Term Storage: Store samples at 0–6°C (32–48°F) for up to 3 days.
Long-Term Storage: Freeze at -20°C (-4°F) if shipping is delayed.

Shipping from outside the USA or the E.U.? Make sure to review our article:
Export Instructions for Soil Samples

To ensure the highest accuracy when analyzing your soil microbiome, it's important to follow standardized sampling protocols. Proper collection and handling preserve soil DNA integrity and support accurate analysis of nutrient cycling, disease risk, and stress adaptation.