How to do a Soil Test
By having your soil analyzed before planting a garden or even fertilizing your lawn, you will know exactly what nutrients you should be adding. You also will determine the pH level of your soil-how acid or alkaline it is. Ideally, the pH level should be neutral to slightly acid for plants to easily absorb water-soluble nutrients.
Your county agricultural extension office can provide mail-in soil test kits. You also can purchase test kits at home and garden centers.
When preparing a soil test sample, dig a small sample of soil-about a quarter of a measuring cup-from 4-6 inches beneath your lawn. Take samples from several areas and mix them together thoroughly before placing them in the sample packet and sending them to the lab. Follow the same basic procedure for your flower beds or garden.
You will receive a nutritional profile of your soil sample, indicating what soil amendments should be made.