Korean Journal of Soil Science and Fertilizer ISSN:0367-6315(Print) 2288-2162(Online) 한국토양비료학회 학회지

The measurement based on reliable standard operating procedures (SOPs) is important for consistent information. The objective of this study is to investigate reliable SOPs of soil physical methods, including core method for bulk density, Yamanaka hardness, and air permeameter method for air permeability. The coefficients of variation in bulk density (core method), Yamanaka hardness, and air permeability were ranged of 1~6%, 8~13%, and 10~84%, respectively. The variation in situ measurement such as bulk density, hardness, and air permeability due to spatial variability at measuring site was larger due to the number of replicates, organic matter content, and soil texture. Nevertheless, air permeability had different values as different number of replicates, and thus, it is thought that more replicates can result in higher reliability. It suggested that investigation of soil physical properties for the target sites should required to consider about soil texture, organic matter content, and number of replications before measurement. In conclusion, core sampling for bulk density measurement in upland soil recommended to perform in 3 repetitions with 2 inch core, and 3 inch core sampling for higher organic matter content.

Bulk density as affected by different organic matter content and number of replicates using 3" and 2" core.

^†Data are presented as means ± standard deviations (SD) of the results based on the corresponding replications.