Post

Soil testing isn’t just for row crops

Warmer weather has gardeners also wanting to get a head start on the growing season.  But before planting – you should have the soil in your garden tested. An extension Master Gardener says a soil test can be very beneficial for your crop.  “You can get recommendations on whether your backyard garden needs phosphorus or potassium,” she says.  “You can also ask for micronutrients because the pH of that soil is very important to the garden’s success.”

Ginny Gibbs, Horticulture Technician at Illinois Central College says the testing agency can make accurate recommendations for your garden.  “If you need sulfur or lime, it isn’t a good idea to just throw it on there – because testing may reveal the pH of your garden’s soil may be at the other end of the spectrum.”  She says that pH level makes a big difference on how the plants take up the nutrients of the soil. 

Gibbs tells Brownfield your local Extension agent can help connect you with a soil testing facility.