Question
Our condo assoc.has many recent dead lawns.We get many divergent opinions(cinch bugs,nematodes) as to causes.I am planning to take about 20 soil samples to be analyized by U of Florida. what is correct way to extract samples,and what part of lawns should I take from( eg: dead section vs. live)

Answer
Hi Bob, Take your samples from the surface to about 4" deep.  I'd take samples from healthy sod, dead sod and from stressed sod.  Use a bulb planter or trowel to take your sample and avoid touching the sample with your hands.
I'd be interested to know the outcome, write me back.  Jim