Garden & Lawn Testing

Why?

Ever wonder if you lawn or garden are getting the enough or too much fertilizer?  With a lawn/garden soil analysis, Soiltest Farm Consultants can answer this question.

  • A soil analysis will identify pH or salt problems.
  • Soil analysis by a reputable laboratory evaluates the fertility level of your soil and provides detailed recommendations of needed nutrients.
  • Your plants benefit by receiving the proper amount of each nutrient.
  • The environment benefits by limiting nutrient pollution of ground or surface waters. Excessive phosphorus and nitrogen degrade water quality for drinking and fish habitat.
  • It is the law in Washington State (RCW 15.54.500). Effective January 1, 2013 a lawn must have a soil test to determine need prior to the application of a turf fertilizer containing phosphorus.

 How?

  1. Sampling is simple but must be done properly to ensure meaningful laboratory results.  For lawns and gardens follow these easy steps for proper sampling:  Clear litter from the surface (do not remove any decomposed black material)Spade
  2. Dig a V-section with your shovel or spade. Remove the sod and soil, leaving the V-shaped hole.
  3. Take a 1-inch slice from the smooth side of the hole.
  4. Trim away excess soil from the sides of the sample, leaving about a 1-inch square column of soil the entire depth.
  5. Place the sample core in a plastic bucket.
  6. Move to the next sample location, and repeat steps 1 through 5 for at least 5 different areas.
  7. When all soil samples have been placed inside the bucket, thoroughly mix the soil. Crush any soil clods, and remove rocks, twigs, leaves, sod, and debris from the soil.
  8. Fill a sample bag with about two cups of material. A quart size Ziploc freezer bag is ideal.
  9. Fill out the Soil Test Request Form. Be sure to include your phone number and email address.

Ship the soil sample bag and the completed Form to:

Soiltest Farm Consultants
2925 Driggs Dr.
Moses Lake, WA 98837

If you purchased a soil test kit, keep your soil test kit number for future reference, particularly if you have more than one sample.