🌱When Should You Sample for the Haney Test? Frequently Asked Questions

One of the most common questions I get about the Haney Soil Health Test is “When should I pull samples?” The answer depends on your location, management practices, and what you want the test to tell you. Below are some frequently asked questions that combine practical field guidance with sampling best practices.

1. When is the best time of year to pull samples?

If you’re further north, fall sampling can work well—especially if you’re banding phosphorus and potassium (P & K) or doing fall fertility applications.

Many growers pull Haney tests in the fall to guide spring fertility recommendations.

In warmer climates, you can sample later in winter or early spring and still have time for results before planting. The Haney Test typically has about a two-week turnaround, so plan to sample early enough for results before your pre-plant or side-dress applications.

2. What if my ground is fallow over winter?

If your soil sits fallow, expect to lose some nitrate-nitrogen before spring through:

• Leaching from rainfall and snowmelt

• Runoff during thaw

• Volatilization in compacted or anaerobic zones

That means the nitrogen level you measured in fall will likely be lower by spring.

3. How does a cover crop affect my results?

If you have a cover crop growing, nitrogen will be held in the biomass rather than lost. As the cover crop decomposes, it slowly releases nitrogen and other nutrients back into the system.

In that case:

• Front-load a small nitrogen amount at planting, then

• Pull another Haney test before your side-dress or topdress to measure how much has been released by biology.

This approach helps fine-tune your in-season fertility program.

4. Should I use a nitrogen stabilizer?

Yes—especially when applying over 15 gallons per acre in any one pass.

A stabilizer helps retain nitrogen in a plant-available form longer.

If you’re using large nitrogen rates, add a quart of fulvic or humic carbon to help balance the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio.

Contrary to popular belief, carbon doesn’t hold onto inorganic fertilizer nitrogen—it balances biological activity and nutrient flow in the soil.

5. Does the time of day matter when sampling?

Generally, no. However, in cold climates, sample when the soil temperature is around 50°F or warmer.

Microbial respiration slows when soil is cold, and that can affect your CO₂-C (soil respiration) values. Lower respiration simply means your microbes are less active—not that your soil is unhealthy.

If your soil is frozen or below 40°F, wait until it warms up a bit for the most accurate biological readings.

6. How do I physically collect Haney soil samples?

According to Regen Ag Lab’s Soil Health Sampling Guidelines:

• Use a clean, rust-free soil probe, spade, or shovel. Avoid lubricants like WD-40 that can skew results.

• Remove all residue and vegetation before sampling.

• Collect from representative areas of the field—similar soil types, topography, and cover. Avoid obvious problem spots.

• Maintain consistent sampling depth (commonly 0–6” or 0–8”). Insert the probe vertically at a 90° angle and twist slightly before removing.

• Combine at least 10 cores per sample area. Mix thoroughly and send about two cups of soil in a plastic-lined paper or plastic bag.

• Label clearly with sample ID, depth, test type, and contact information. Use permanent marker before you start sampling.

🧭 Pro Tip: If your field has multiple soil types (say, 50%, 30%, and 20%), take samples from each area in similar proportion for a representative field average.

7. How should I store and ship samples?

Haney Test samples do not require refrigeration or ice packs unless you’re also requesting PLFA testing.

• Keep samples in a cool, shaded place for up to two days before shipping.

• If holding longer, store in the fridge for up to two weeks or freezer for extended time.

• Ship with your completed submittal form via standard 2–3-day carrier.

Avoid storing wet samples in hot vehicles or direct sunlight—microbial activity can change quickly under warm, anaerobic conditions.

8. How often should I test?

The key to meaningful Haney Test data is consistency.

Test at the same time each year—whether fall or pre-plant—so you can compare results accurately.

Over time, you’ll start recognizing how your management changes impact soil health, nutrient availability, and biological activity. That’s when the Haney Test becomes a true management tool, not just a lab number.

9. How long does it take to get results back?

Expect a two-week turnaround from most laboratories. This timing lets you make informed fertility decisions for pre-plant, in-season, or side-dress applications.

Takeaway

Pull your Haney samples with purpose—based on your crop plan, nitrogen strategy, and soil temperature, not just the calendar.

Whether you’re using cover crops, stabilizers, or split applications, consistency and proper handling are the keys to getting the most value from your test.

Want to learn more about interpreting Haney results or integrating PLFA and TND testing into a unified soil health framework?

Visit SoilRegen.com or contact our team—we’re here to help you turn data into decisions for better soil health and profitability