A disposable corer for sampling organic soils

A disposable and inexpensive corer is described that offers a versatile method for sampling soft soils with a large organic content. The cans are suitable for the immediate collection of soil and for field incubations. Fine roots are sliced easily during insertion of corers by the sharp bottom edge, and the thin walls and the high thermal conductivity of steel aid transfer of heat energy between the bulk soil and the sample. If desired the cylinders may be perforated, have the upper cap removed and also can be used as an indicator of anaerobic soil conditions. This revised version was published online in June 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.