George Shirley wrote:
Davej wrote:

Is this worth doing, and if so then how?

more words/background needed, questions too
vague...

sometimes, but i often think they are just yet
another wasted expense. a small plot gardener who
is just starting out may be better served by doing
some basic readings first before getting to soil
tests. why test an area when later you'll decide
to put in raised beds? or perhaps a pond or a
perennial garden and a greenhouse?

there's a lot of basic information that is much
more helpful than a soil test. like, if the area
has enough light or moisture, what the site is like
generally, drainage, accessibility, etc. perhaps
it really won't support the original intent very
well and it is best to rethink and replan?


Most states have ag agents who can either test your soil or sell you a
kit to send back for testing. Check with them first. If you just want to
test pH you can buy a kit at most garden centers. I've used both over
the years and it was worth the effort and bucks. What I had thought was
a medium pH soil turned out to be fairly acidic. That then tells you how
to amend your soil.

agricultural agents are not always the best resource
for gardening information. if you do get a soil test
from them their answers may reflect their extractive
agricultural perspective.

better to look for your local gardening clubs or to
ask around the neighborhood for a master gardener.

a bit of reading (about 10-20 pages) should be available
on line or at the library which can describe how to analyze
an area and take a soil sample.

more generally useful materials are also available for
free at the library. well worth the time spent.


songbird