– Christine Gelley, Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator, Noble County OSU Extension
Don’t guess, soil test!
Having an issue with your lawn, garden, pasture, or crop field? The classic first question we ask in Extension is- “When was your last soil test?” If it has been more than 3 years since the last time a soil fertility test has been done on the space, it is time to take another one. Soil testing is the most reliable way to find out what nutrients your soil has to offer for growing plants and what may need added for improved growth.
Autumn is an excellent time for soil testing! The soil tends to be drier and easier to sample in the fall. Testing laboratories tend to be less busy than in the spring. You have the observations of growth in your memory from the past season and you have a season to prepare before you will have plants growing again. This gives you time to make corrections to soil pH and to shop around for the best fertilizer for your situation!
Many County Extension Offices have soil sampling equipment available that you can borrow, soil test kits to send your sample into the lab, and knowledgeable staff to help interpret your results. They would be happy to help you choose the soil test that makes sense for your situation and provide consultation on how to make improvements to your soil fertility moving forward. If you have never done a soil sample before, Extension office staff can also walk you through the steps!
Completing and consulting a soil test will save you time and money as you work toward meeting the needs of the plants you grow! Don’t guess. Soil test!