How can you measure the amount of clay silt and sand in topsoil?

Question

How do you know where your local agriculture department is?

Answer 1

If all you want to do is see how much clay silt and sand are in your top soil, all you need to do is get a clear plastic water bottle and fill 1/3 of it with your soil, then the rest with water. Close the cap and shake it good. Then let it sit for a day or so. The soil should settle into layers with the bottom being sand and the top being fine clay and organic matter, and silt in the middle. You can see the relative porportions in your soil without having to drive anywhere.

Answer 2

if you're in the US , there's one attached to every county...(called ------- County Extension office or Co-operative extension office ) look up yours in the phone book.... if you're not in US, then you should still have an agriculture agent and office where you can get help  ....

(the bottle, soil and water thing is a good idea, too)

Answer 3

You can take a sample to your local department of agricluture. They can tell you evertying about your soil. If you need lime etc etc.