Sampling and handling of soils and rhizosphere soil are very critical steps for obtaining representative microbial cultures and genomic material from these environments. Attention to position in the landscape of a sampling site, previous management of the site, time of year, and depth of sampling is important to assure representative samples. Detailed protocols are provided to assist environmental microbiologists and molecular biologists in proper sampling and handling of soils that serve as the source of cultures and DNA for subsequent use in important experiments carried out in the laboratory.
Keywords: Composite soil sample; Landscape position; Rhizosphere; Soil microbial community; Soil profile; Soil survey.