ASTM D5268-92(1997) - 1.1.1996
 
1. Scope

1.1 This specification covers a physical evaluation of an inorganic soil containing a limited amount of organic material, relative to its use as a topsoil for horticultural purposes in construction. For classification, a full agricultural textural classification may be used.

1.2 The presence in the soil of the correct nutrients and pH status is necessary for healthy plant growth. This specification does not, however, cover a determination of the nutrients, nor their availability.

Note 1-The nutrient content of topsoil is important and the chemicals usually evaluated are nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium. Nutrient deficiencies may be corrected using fertilizers. Excess soluble salts should be examined as to their desirability. The acidity or alkalinity of the soil is also important. Excess acidity may be corrected by the application of lime dust. Excess alkalinity may be corrected by the application of sulfur or other suitable acidifying compounds. The latter item, in addition to lowering pH, also could be considered as an aggregate when considering the particle size distribution.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

 
2. Referenced Documents

D4972-19(2024)e1

Standard Test Methods for pH of Soils (Includes all amendments and changes 8/1/2024).

E11-24

Standard Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves

E145-19(2024)

Standard Specification for Gravity-Convection and Forced-Ventilation Ovens

D4753-25

Standard Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Balances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and Construction Materials Testing

D6026-21

Standard Practice for Using Significant Digits and Data Records in Geotechnical Data

D1140-25

Standard Test Methods for Determining the Amount of Material Finer than 75-µm (No. 200) Sieve in Soils by Washing

D2974-25e1

Standard Test Methods for Determining the Water (Moisture) Content, Ash Content, and Organic Material of Peat and Other Organic Soils (Includes all amendments and changes 12/9/2025).

D653-26a

Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids (Includes all amendments and changes 6/15/2026).

D3740-26

Standard Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing of Soil and Rock as Used in Engineering Design and Construction