When assessing soils, what should you look at to gain a complete understanding?

To gain a complete understanding of soils, it is essential to examine the whole soil profile rather than focusing solely on individual holes. The soil profile consists of various horizons, each with distinct physical and chemical properties, including texture, structure, color, moisture, and organic matter content. Analyzing the entire profile allows for a comprehensive assessment of soil health, fertility, drainage, and suitability for certain land uses.

Individual holes might provide localized information, but they can miss critical variations that can occur over depth and distance. A holistic view of the layers of soil can reveal important characteristics such as compaction, root development, and the presence of different soil types or layers that influence nutrient availability and water movement. This broader perspective is crucial for making informed decisions related to agriculture, landscaping, environmental conservation, and construction.