PURCHASING A SOIL TEST KIT
Soil test kits are available for purchase during our office hours:
Soil Test: $15 ($16.05 with tax)
Soil Test with Organic Matter: $20 ($21.40 with tax)
We accept cash, checks, and major credit cards. If you plan on paying with cash, please bring exact change.
Not sure how to complete your test? Check out this video to learn more! Still stumped? Call our offices at (513) 695-1337 - we can't wait to help!
Soil Test: $15 ($16.05 with tax)
Soil Test with Organic Matter: $20 ($21.40 with tax)
We accept cash, checks, and major credit cards. If you plan on paying with cash, please bring exact change.
Not sure how to complete your test? Check out this video to learn more! Still stumped? Call our offices at (513) 695-1337 - we can't wait to help!
Why should I test my soil?
Soil testing is a tool to evaluate nutrient imbalances and understand plant growth. The most important reason to soil test is to have a basis for intelligent application of fertilizer and lime. Soil testing allows homeowners to adjust soil pH to the optimum range (6.0-7.0), which makes nutrients more available for plant growth. You can also avoid contaminants that can enter our surface and ground waters through over-application of phosphorous or nitrogen fertilizers. Soil test results provide information about the soil’s ability to supply nutrients to plants for adequate growth and are the basis of deciding how much lime and fertilizer are needed. Soil testing can also offer cost savings. Why apply what you don’t need?
when should I test for organic matter?
Soil organic matter influences the physical, chemical and biological properties of soil. Properties influenced by organic matter include soil structure, water holding capacity, nutrient contributions, biological activity, water and air infiltration rate, and pesticide activity. Soils high in organic matter have better water holding capacity, are less prone to nutrient leaching, and have more beneficial biological activity. There really isn’t a reason not to test for organic matter, unless you already know it’s okay.
How often should I test my soil?
Soil tests should be performed every 3-5 years based on use. A heavy use, changing the soil profile and nutrient content rapidly would be a vegetable garden. A lighter use that would cause soil characteristics to remain somewhat consistent would be lawn grass.
To learn more, check out Ohio State University Extension's guide:
To learn more, check out Ohio State University Extension's guide:
