Mail-in testing is temporarily down while we expand and relocate the lab.
Sample Preperation
Gather your tools
- A clean, dry soil probe, auger, or shovel.
- A clean plastic bucket.
- A dry, clean container for the soil sample (like a plastic zip-lock bag or jar with a tight lid).
Sampling time
- Ideally, sample before fertilizing or a few weeks after planting.
- Ensure the soil is not overly wet or dry during sampling.
Select sampling spots For Potted Plants
- Select different pots to represent various plants or growth stages.
- From each pot, dig about 3-4 inches deep and collect a small soil sample.
- Place each sample in its own container, labeling them clearly.
Select Sampling Spots For Garden Plots
- Choose several spots across the plot for a representative sample.
- Dig holes about 6-8 inches deep and take a vertical soil slice from each.
- Combine these slices in a bucket and mix thoroughly for a uniform composite sample.
- After mixing, fill a container with this composite sample.
Dry The Samples
Spread each separate pot sample and/or the mixed garden plot sample on clean surfaces to air dry, avoiding direct sunlight or artificial heat.
Packaging
- Once dry, ensure each pot sample is securely sealed in its labeled container.
- Do the same for the garden plot composite sample.
- Package each container carefully to prevent mixing during transit.
Mail-in services temporarily unavailable
We're currently making upgrades and securing a new space to build a bigger, better testing lab. Mail-in services are paused during this transition. Thanks for your patience and we’ll be back soon, better than before