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Conditions for optimal soil testing #890709

Asked December 11, 2024, 1:18 PM EST

I want to test my soil to determine the best native plants for plantings in various areas around my 3 acre parcel. Note, the majority of the parcel is heavily wooded with hardwoods species where we we are interested in planting understory trees to support birds and insect populations. When is the best time to submit a soil sample for testing and are there any requirements such as outdoor temp or not after a rain event I should be aware of for the most accurate testing. We have owned our lot for 25 years and have never applied fertilizers. Thank you

Oakland County Michigan

Expert Response

Linda - you can take a soil sample at any time that the soil is not frozen.  Just make sure the soil is not packed hard or too wet when you send it to the lab.  Air drying overnight is a good method to get it to room temperature and reduce the moisture.

I've included the link below where you can purchase online an MSU soil sample kit or perhaps purchase one from the Oakland MSU Extension office.  If purchasing locally, I would give the office a call to confirm they have the test kits and the office hours.  The kit includes everything you will need for the soil sample and detailed instructions.  Results usually are emailed to you within 2 weeks.  We can view your results from this site so let us know if you have any questions.  Hope that helps.

https://homesoiltest.msu.edu/get-started

Diane - MSU Advanced Extension Master Gardener Replied December 12, 2024, 12:28 PM EST

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