Abstract: An apparatus for removing soil samples from the root zone of a potted plant includes a first longitudinal tubular member and a second longitudinal member telescopically mounted within the first tubular member. The second member has a lower blunt end which protrudes slightly beyond the lower beveled end of the outer tubular member such that when the apparatus is caused to penetrate the root system of a plant, the roots are not damaged or severed. Having reached a desired depth, the center member may be extracted a predetermined distance such that further penetration of the apparatus will result in soil being deposited in the cylinderical opening at the bottom of said outer tubular member. The outer tubular member may be graduated so as to give a visual indication of its depth of penetration. Furthermore, means may be provided for locking the central member in its extracted position and in its penetration position.