Soil Analysis Question - Ask Extension
Good evening,
I recently had a soil analysis done through UVM (S21-01588) and the Aluminum came back at 118. I was wondering if this was low, medi...
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Soil Analysis Question #750750
Asked May 18, 2021, 8:44 PM EDT
Good evening,
I recently had a soil analysis done through UVM (S21-01588) and the Aluminum came back at 118. I was wondering if this was low, medium, or high and if there is any concerns with this level.
Also, I am planting a vegetable garden in this area with my kids and was wondering if having a vinyl fence around it is alright. My concern was having the plastic fence leach into the soil/plants.
Thank you in advance.
Kindly,
Dave
Addison County Vermont
Expert Response
Dave
I can assure you that a vinyl garden fence will suit your needs and cause no leaching issues.
I just wish I had a simple answer for you on your soils test question. I've been researching the elevated Aluminum results from your soil test and haven't come up with a definitive answer for you. I haven't given up. There's potentially a link to the lowered pH level (at 5.7) - but I haven't been able to find anything conclusive. I'll keep researching and ask for assistance as I'd like to give you the best direction possible. Look for additional correspondence from us soon.
Judy
I can assure you that a vinyl garden fence will suit your needs and cause no leaching issues.
I just wish I had a simple answer for you on your soils test question. I've been researching the elevated Aluminum results from your soil test and haven't come up with a definitive answer for you. I haven't given up. There's potentially a link to the lowered pH level (at 5.7) - but I haven't been able to find anything conclusive. I'll keep researching and ask for assistance as I'd like to give you the best direction possible. Look for additional correspondence from us soon.
Judy
Hi Judy,
Thank you so much for your response.
I appreciate the information on the aluminum below and look forward to hearing from you soon.
Have a nice weekend.
Kindly,
Dave
Dave
I've returned, with good news.
It seems the consensus is not to be alarmed by the level of aluminum. Regardless of the level it would only be a problem at much lower pH levels. And by low, we mean in the range of "5.0" where aluminum toxicity would be a concern. Your soil pH of 5.9 is not a concern, but lets not let it drop.
The report recommends using a low-P fertilizer to supply the required N and K. Lime would be a welcome fertilizer for your lawn to meet that goal and maintain your pH levels. I would review and follow the recommendations under the "Comments" section (page 2) and enjoy your lawn this summer!
Happy gardening
Judy
I've returned, with good news.
It seems the consensus is not to be alarmed by the level of aluminum. Regardless of the level it would only be a problem at much lower pH levels. And by low, we mean in the range of "5.0" where aluminum toxicity would be a concern. Your soil pH of 5.9 is not a concern, but lets not let it drop.
The report recommends using a low-P fertilizer to supply the required N and K. Lime would be a welcome fertilizer for your lawn to meet that goal and maintain your pH levels. I would review and follow the recommendations under the "Comments" section (page 2) and enjoy your lawn this summer!
Happy gardening
Judy
Hi Judy,
Thank you so much for your response regarding my questions. I recently applied lime to raise the ph and will follow the recommendations you mentioned below.
I look forward to continuing to use UVM for future soil tests.
Have a great summer.
Kindly,
Dave
