How Many Soil Tests Needed? - Ask Extension
Hello! I am interested in testing the soil in two garden beds located in my apartment's backyard. I am wondering if I can use the same soil test for b...
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How Many Soil Tests Needed? #862567
Asked March 26, 2024, 4:39 PM EDT
Hello! I am interested in testing the soil in two garden beds located in my apartment's backyard. I am wondering if I can use the same soil test for both garden beds, or if I should order one test for each garden bed? The beds are about 5 feet apart from each other, and I have attached photos of each bed.
Kent County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello
If the existing soil that is in the beds is similar (from the same components) and does contain mineral soil, aka topsoil and is not soilless, then you can take a representative sample from both beds. Dig down 6 inches and take 3-4 samples from each bed, mix these in a plastic bucket, and then, take about a cup of mixed soil to place in your sample bag.
On the other hand, if, the components of the two beds are different consistencies, you will want to take two separate samples to get results and recommendations specific to each bed.
Thanks for your question.
If the existing soil that is in the beds is similar (from the same components) and does contain mineral soil, aka topsoil and is not soilless, then you can take a representative sample from both beds. Dig down 6 inches and take 3-4 samples from each bed, mix these in a plastic bucket, and then, take about a cup of mixed soil to place in your sample bag.
On the other hand, if, the components of the two beds are different consistencies, you will want to take two separate samples to get results and recommendations specific to each bed.
Thanks for your question.
Thanks for the response!
Are you able to tell from the two photos in my original messages if the soil in the two beds is similar? I just moved into this apartment in the fall, and the beds were already there with the soil/material shown in the photos already there too, so I'm not sure what type of soil they have exactly. One of them has a lot more weeds than the other, so I'm not sure if that's indicative of different soil consistencies?
Appreciate any advice you're able to give!
Hello
It's difficult to tell from the photos, but you can still take a representative sample from both, i.e. send in one sample. This will provide a good start for your gardening. Be sure to dig down 6 inches (especially in the bed with more soil) and mix both of at least 4 samples from each and get a mixed cup to send in.
Thanks again.
It's difficult to tell from the photos, but you can still take a representative sample from both, i.e. send in one sample. This will provide a good start for your gardening. Be sure to dig down 6 inches (especially in the bed with more soil) and mix both of at least 4 samples from each and get a mixed cup to send in.
Thanks again.
That makes sense, I'll get one test ordered! Thank you for all your help!
