Modern agriculture is changing rapidly, and precision farming has already become the gold standard for efficient resource use. One of the basic links in this chain is soil sampling for analysis. It is the soil samplers that help obtain reliable information about the condition of fields, based on which farmers make decisions regarding fertilization, sowing, or irrigation.
Why are soil samplers needed?
Sampling allows for the accurate determination of the chemical, physical, and biological state of soils. This is the basis for:
- optimizing fertilization (avoiding overconsumption and environmental risks);
- monitoring changes in soil;
- diagnosing problems with acidity, compaction, and pollution;
- creating field maps for GPS control and automatic refueling of machinery.
As a result, the farmer receives a fertility map, increases yield, and saves on resources.
What types of soil samplers are there?
In Ukraine, various types of soil samplers are used depending on the scale of the farm, sampling depth, and soil structure:
1. Manual samplers
- Most simple, suitable for small plots.
- Consist of metal cylinders, drills, or scoops.
- Advantage — low cost and mobility.
- Disadvantage — labor-intensive and limited sampling depth.
2. Mechanized samplers (powered by battery, internal combustion engine, or electric motor)
- Speed up work, reduce physical strain.
- Allow sampling at greater depths (up to 1.5-2 m).
- Can be mounted on ATVs, cars, etc.
3. Trailed and automotive samplers
- Installed on SUVs, pickups, tractors.
- Work autonomously, allow sampling from large areas and different depths.
- Suitable for agribusiness and high-capacity laboratories.
How, when, and why are samplers used in Ukraine?
Sampling is usually carried out in autumn or spring, before applying main fertilizers. Depending on the field size and unevenness in nutrient uptake, samples are taken with a certain density (for example, 1 sample per 5 hectares).
It is important to adhere to the correct sampling depth (tilled layer — 0-30 cm, deeper — for specific analyses), avoid mixing different layers, and mark sampling locations (GPS!). The quality of sampling determines the accuracy of laboratory results, and thus, the accuracy of technological operations in the field.
Overview of Bodenprobetechnik Peters GmbH soil samplers (formerly Nietfeld)
Bodenprobetechnik Peters GmbH (Germany) is one of the recognized leaders in the world of soil samplers. Their equipment works in Ukraine as well, particularly for agribusiness, laboratories, and service companies.
Classification of Peters samplers
1. Mounted devices (on cars, pickups, ATVs)
- The most popular class for Ukrainian companies.
- Allows for rapid sampling on large areas.
1. Trailed (on tractors, SUVs), autonomous laboratories
- Top models for large companies.
- Fully autonomous complexes for intensive sampling.
Below is a more detailed overview of popular models:
Overview of popular models
MP-1.90, MP-2.60, MP-3.90, MP-4.100
MP series — these are versatile soil samplers for installation on transport (pickups, SUVs, ATVs).
- MP-1.90:
- Sampling depth: up to 90 cm
- Ideal for standard field tasks.
- Drive — from vehicle hydraulics.
- Has compact dimensions, easy to service.
- MP-2.60:
- Depth up to 60 cm.
- Designed for sampling in the top layer.
- Often used for operational analyses.
- MP-3.90:
- Increased productivity.
- Can be equipped with different tips for various soil types.
- Popular in laboratories and service companies.
- MP-4.100:
- The most powerful model: depth up to 1 m, high productivity.
- Integrated cleaning system for the sampling tube.
- Ability to program the sampling algorithm (e.g., by coordinates from GPS).
N2006, N2012
N series — reliable mid-range models for professional use.
- N2006:
- Working depth — up to 60 cm, compact dimensions.
- Can be mounted on light equipment.
- Works well with heavy soils.
- N2012:
- Improved version, greater productivity.
- Reliable drive and cleaning system.
- Optimal balance of price and functionality.
Boprob III
- Autonomous trailed soil sampler.
- Equipped with its own hydraulic drive.
- Can automatically take samples according to GPS maps, records sampling coordinates.
- Often used in agribusiness in Ukraine for express monitoring of large areas.
NH 90/120-UP, Duoprob 60-UP
- Specialized models for working with different types of compacted or heavy soils.
- Distinguished by reinforced construction and additional capabilities (sampling from different depths, automatic sample packaging).
Thus, soil samplers are an essential tool for the modern agrarian, and the choice of a specific model depends on the scale of the farm, soil types, and laboratory analysis tasks. Bodenprobetechnik Peters GmbH equipment is rightfully considered a reliable and high-quality choice for precision farming in Ukraine: from mobile solutions to powerful automated systems. Proper organization of sampling is the first step towards a smart harvest and savings!