ASTM D5883-96e1 - 13.10.1998
 
1. Scope

1.1 This guide covers the material characteristics, physical requirements, and sampling appropriate for the designation of the material as a mineral amendment.

1.2 The presence in the topsoil of the correct nutrient and pH level is necessary for healthy plant growth. This guide 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 by 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. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, 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

D653-26a

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

D5268-23

Standard Specification for Topsoil Used for Landscaping and Construction Purposes

E11-24

Standard Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves

C566-25

Standard Test Method for Total Evaporable Moisture Content of Aggregate by Drying

D75-03

Standard Practice for Sampling Aggregates

C29/C29M-23

Standard Test Method for Bulk Density (“Unit Weight”) and Voids in Aggregate

D1140-25

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

D3740-26

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

D4972-19(2024)e1

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