soil testing - Ask Extension
We need to have our garden soil tested. What is the best way to accomplish this? thanks for any tips
Kathy Olheiser
Knowledgebase
soil testing #889924
Asked November 16, 2024, 2:19 PM EST
We need to have our garden soil tested. What is the best way to accomplish this? thanks for any tips
Kathy Olheiser
Marion County Oregon
Expert Response
Dear Kathy,
Thank you for contacting Ask Extension. Getting a soil test is an excellent informational tool before starting a gardening or soil amendment project.
OSU Extension does not recommend specific labs or offer soil testing services; however, the following information may help you. I've included links to Oregon labs as well as one other that is reported to be especially good for home gardeners:
https://www.simplysoiltesting.com/
https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/ec628
https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/em8677
https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/ec1478
Be sure to take a good sample (per the info above) and then let the lab know what you are planning (vegetables, shrubs, etc.)
Soil tests generally do not give you the nitrogen (N) content of soil because it moves so rapidly through plants and soil. It rapidly washes out of the soil through rain and irrigation so it needs to be replenished in small amounts on a regular basis. This can be done organically or with conventional fertilizers, but be sure to follow the label instructions exactly.
Happy gardening!
Thank you for contacting Ask Extension. Getting a soil test is an excellent informational tool before starting a gardening or soil amendment project.
OSU Extension does not recommend specific labs or offer soil testing services; however, the following information may help you. I've included links to Oregon labs as well as one other that is reported to be especially good for home gardeners:
https://www.simplysoiltesting.com/
https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/ec628
https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/em8677
https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/ec1478
Be sure to take a good sample (per the info above) and then let the lab know what you are planning (vegetables, shrubs, etc.)
Soil tests generally do not give you the nitrogen (N) content of soil because it moves so rapidly through plants and soil. It rapidly washes out of the soil through rain and irrigation so it needs to be replenished in small amounts on a regular basis. This can be done organically or with conventional fertilizers, but be sure to follow the label instructions exactly.
Happy gardening!
