87 



diluted hydrochloric acid the nearest 

 representation of inorganic plant-food in 

 physical combination. 

 ( 6 ) A chemical analysis of what is not dissolved 



by the above process. 

 (7) A chemical analysis of the subsoil. 

 Mr. W. E. Ivey remark* with regard to soil 

 analysis : " In forwarding samples of soil for 

 analysis, great assistance may be rendered to the 

 chemist in many cases, and value added to his 

 report, if they are accompanied with as full parti* 

 culars as possible upon all points likely to throw 

 light upon any observed features of the soil, 

 especially when examination is desired for the 

 purpose of ascertaining the cause of the peculiarity. 

 The samples should be 3 to 4 Ibs. in weight, and 

 should be taken from the surface to a depth of 

 about 6 inches. Samples of the subsoil should 

 always accompany them, and the following informa- 

 tion should be given : 



1st. Situation and origin. Thus, if the soil is 

 from hill-country, its aspect should be 

 given ; or if from level country, swamp, 

 or alluvial lands, the geological formation 

 from which it is derived. 



2nd. If it is virgin forest soil, information 

 should be given as to the character of the 

 trees and undergrowth ; and of the 

 grasses, if it is open country. 



