Most gardeners think that soil tests are done only to find out what nutrients are deficient. However, it is just as important to know if you have adequate levels of nutrients so you don’t add unneeded fertilizer. The most basic soil test checks pH and the levels of phosphorus and potassium. Most of the lawn and garden soil tests that come out of our soil-testing lab show more than adequate levels of both phosphorus and potassium. If those nutrients are not needed, applying them is a waste of money and can be a source of pollution. In extreme cases, excess phosphorus can interfere with the uptake of micronutrients. So, if you haven’t taken a soil test in several years, take one this spring.
Begin by taking a representative sample from a number of locations in the garden or lawn that goes from the surface to 6 to 8 inches deep. Mix the samples together in a clean container and select about 1 pint of soil.
Take the soil to your local K-State Research and Extension office to have tests done at the K-State soil-testing laboratory for a small fee. A soil test determines fertility problems, not other conditions that may exist such as poor drainage, poor soil structure, soil borne diseases or insects, chemical contaminants or damage, or shade with root competition from other plants. All of these conditions may reduce plant performance but cannot be evaluated by a soil test.
Soil Testing Information: https://www.postrock.k-state.edu/lawn-garden/soiltesting/index.html
By: Cassie Homan
Post Rock Extension District is grateful for the support from the Solomon Valley Community Foundation to purchase new soil testing equipment for the Beloit Office. The equipment includes a soil probe, a soil testing kit including a bucket with augers (12” and 24”) and a portable drill. This equipment is available for producers and gardeners of Mitchell County to check out and use for obtaining soil samples for testing their soil for nutrient needs. There is also a handheld pH tester for our Post Rock Extension District staff to use for monitoring and testing the soil pH for clients.