What is "Soil profile analysis"?
The “Soil profile analysis,” used even in actual research fields,
is not widely known but actually requires no specialized analytical instruments or advanced techniques. It is a soil investigation method that allows you to assess soil conditions using just one shovel. You can learn about the soil as a complex system—something that typical soil analysis often misses.
Additionally, compared to general soil analyses, this method is democratic because the survey procedure is open and incurs no cost.
However, this soil profile analysis has mainly been conducted at universities and research institutions.
As a result, there have been very few opportunities for the general public to learn this method. But because it allows you to understand soil conditions deeply, easily, and affordably, we have developed a training course to encourage more people to practice it.
The course consists of lectures on basic soil knowledge and hands-on fieldwork to form and survey soil profiles.
Unlike training led by researchers without farming experience, this course is taught by active farmers, making it a unique opportunity to learn and investigate soil as practical, applied knowledge.
However, since the survey method relies on sensory observations in the field, it cannot accommodate large groups. The course is held in small groups so that 1–2 instructors can provide direct, hands-on guidance in the field.
There are two courses available: a general course and a course for farmers and professionals.
This is a very rare opportunity to learn soil profile surveying in the field.
We also offer on-site training upon request. If you are interested, please contact us.
〇 Instructor
● Shoko Nakano
Graduated from the Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba. Affiliated with the Soil Chemistry Laboratory.
Worked for three years at the Soil Heavy Metals Laboratory, Institute of Agro-Environmental Sciences, while pursuing her studies.
Former junior high school science teacher.
● Kai Sakou
Graduated from the Faculty of Agriculture, Kyoto University, specializing in Soil Science.
After completing a two-year internship at SHO Farm, he began new farming operations in Mashiko, Tochigi Prefecture in February 2025.
Recommended not only for farmers but also for general individuals involved in home gardening or similar activities.
・Want to understand the condition of the soil in your own field or garden.
・Are working on soil improvement or soil environment restoration but have no way to verify the effects.
・Are unsatisfied with the results of soil testing by external institutions and are looking for a more affordable method.
What You Can Learn to Do with Soil Profile Analysis
① You will acquire basic knowledge about soil necessary for soil diagnosis.
② You will learn how to evaluate soil conditions from multiple perspectives based on soil profile color, shape, depth, and more.
③ You will be able to independently assess changes in your garden or field over time.
〇Budget: Please inquire.
*Gaining hands-on experience is important to master profile analysis.
Even after completing the survey, the course aims to equip you to continue using this method independently.
Please fill out and submit the form below with your name, a brief self-introduction, your area of residence, and specific inquiries regarding the soil profile survey.
developed by Adriana Ito & Yann Klein