Abstract / scope
Describes a preliminary test for the rapid estimation of soil quality by comparing the growth of roots of a specified plant under standard conditions with that in a test soil. The method is applicable to all soils, soil forming materials, waste residues or chemicals which may be applied to soil, except where the contaminant is highly volatile or only affects photosynthesis. Is applicable to the measurement of the effects of substances deliberately added to the soil and to the comparison of soils of known or unknown quality.