An inexpensive soil test can tell you a great deal about your soil, explains Debbie Joines of the University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service. The average soil test costs only about $4 to $6 per sample but can save you hundreds of dollars by giving you the information you need to keep your lawn, trees, shrubs and garden plants healthy. First decide whether you want to test the soil from your entire garden or from a specific garden plot. It's best to sample distinct areas separately because soil conditions may vary widely from one part of the garden to another. Each sample should include soil from several spots within each area to be tested. You'll need a clean digging tool, preferably made of stainless steel, as tools made of galvanized metal or brass may contaminate the sample. A large soupspoon, trowel or shovel works well. Wear a pair of disposable latex gloves when gathering the samples. When taking samples from the lawn, focus on the soil near the roots -- the top 3". Don't sample immediately after fertilizing your lawn: the presence of fertilizer will invalidate the results of the test. Remove any grass blades or other organic matter, and crumble the matted soil around the roots into a plastic bag. In order to get a good analysis, collect samples from a dozen different sites in the target area: soils vary greatly from one spot to another. When sampling garden beds or vegetable-garden soil, clear any debris or plant growth from the area to be tested. Dig down about 6", then place a sample in a clean plastic bag. Follow the same procedure at each of the sampling sites, adding each sample to the same bag. If the soil is wet, put it on a paper plate and allow it to dry slightly before sending it. Shake the bag well to mix all the samples together. Transfer 1/2 cup of the sample into a second clean plastic bag. The results of a basic soil test usually include an analysis of the soil's phosphorous and potassium content and its pH reading. It may also include a measurement of the soil's organic content. If you suspect soil contamination by heavy metals or want an analysis of trace minerals, you'll have to specify those tests. If you have trouble interpreting the results of your soil test, take the results to a local nursery or garden center for advice. A salesperson can explain what products are necessary and how to use them.
GUESTS :
Debbie Joines
UT Agricultural Extension Service
5201 Marchant Drive
Nashville, TN 37211-5201
Phone: 615-832-6802
Fax: 615-832-0043
Email: djoines@cru.gw.utk.edu
Website: http://www.utextension.utk.edu
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