How to get my soil tested? - Ask Extension
Hello. I live in Hillsboro, OR. I would like to get my soil tested. How much do I need to bring and do I need to dig down to get some or just the top ...
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How to get my soil tested? #865763
Asked April 24, 2024, 3:02 PM EDT
Hello. I live in Hillsboro, OR. I would like to get my soil tested. How much do I need to bring and do I need to dig down to get some or just the top layer will do?
Washington County Oregon
Expert Response
Greetings,
Many OSU Extension Master Gardener programs offer basic soil pH testing. Contact your local Extension office or Master Gardening program to inquire about what is offered near you.
There are Metro area Master Gardener programs that you can reach out to, however, you may need to refer to a laboratory. This publication includes various laboratories across the state and which tests they offer, as well as recommendations for making a decision:
Types of soil testing
In addition to being tested for acidity, soil can also be tested for potential contamination or for nutrient content. The following resources have more information on different soil tests:
- Should I worry about heavy metals in my garden soil? OSU Extension Service
- Herbicide-Contaminated Compost and Soil Mix: What You Should Know — and What You Can Do About It, OSU Extension Service
How to collect soil samples
To ensure accurate results, you must sample your soil correctly and consistently. The following materials have instructions for collecting soil samples:
- How do I test my garden soil? OSU Extension Service
- How do I collect a soil sample for testing? OSU Extension Service
- A Guide to Collecting Soil Samples for Farms and Gardens, OSU Extension Service
Soil test results
This guide explains how to interpret your soil test results, including how and when to test soil, which test results suggest deficiencies or excessive concentrations and offers solutions to correct soil imbalances: