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1. pH Test
Cheapest, fastest fix (lime). Measurable change in 3–6 months.
2. % Bare Earth
Cover crops and mulch show visible results within weeks.
3. Penetrometer / Compaction
Controlled traffic + deep-rooted cover crops break compaction within one season.
4. Infiltration Rate
Improves as compaction and organic matter are addressed. 1–2 seasons.
5. Earthworms
Fast responders to reduced tillage and organic matter. 1–2 seasons.
6. Slake Test
Aggregate stability responds to organic matter additions within 1–2 seasons.
7. Rooting Depth
Depth improves as compaction layers are broken. Follows Tier 1 fixes.
8. Soil Smell
Instant field diagnostic. Flags anaerobic conditions fixable within weeks.
9. Nodulation of Legumes
Inoculating legume seed with Rhizobium delivers results in one crop cycle.
10. Rhizosheaths
Mycorrhizal networks rebuild over 1–3 seasons with reduced tillage.
11. Soil Insect Score
Arthropod biodiversity recovers over 2–4 seasons.
12. Visual Soil Colour
Soil darkening from organic matter accumulation is a slow, long-term indicator.
13. Biomass (microBIOMETER)
Microbial biomass responds to diverse organic amendments over 1–3 seasons.
14. Brix Barometer
Plant sap sugar responds to improved nutrition within a growing season.
