Using cell counting and optical measurements have been proven to be best methods. Please, kindly read more on this in the attached article. Kind regards
There are many ways to measure bacteria growth, and some are more complex than others. Though you sacrifice some consistency in your measurements, the simplest methods are accurate enough and used commonly. The most well-known methods are observing and counting the bacteria, measuring wet or dry mass, and measuring turbidity.
There have been many developments over the years. However , serial dilution plate method stands out to be the best method for measuring culturable bacteria.
(Patent # 9,315,849 and patent pending)
MicrobiometerTM allows for on-site estimation of the microbial biomass (MB) in a soil or compost sample. The data may be used to determine whether the soil nutritional level is adequate or requires remediation, or whether a compost sample is nutrient rich. PDF enclosed...