Soil tests are a good starting point for managing the garden. Fertilizing without a soil test analysis requires guessing which nutrients need to be added. This is likely to result in applying too much or too little fertilizer leading to wasting time and money. Excess nutrients can negatively affect plant growth and contribute to waste runoff into our waterways.
Standard soil tests analyze for nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and soil pH. Additional soil tests can be requested as needed. Your local extension agent can help you analyze the results of the soil test and make recommendations about a fertilizer protocol.
For the lawn and garden soil tests are recommended every three to four years.
Soil tests evaluate nutrient and pH levels as they pertain to plant growth. The presence of insects, disease and compaction are not evaluated in standard soil tests.