tips & tricks
3 ) RESULTS : The results of a DIY soil test can become evident in minutes . Growers don ’ t need to wait long at all to know what they are dealing with .
Cons
1 ) PRECISION : Most DIY soil kits do not offer the precision of a lab test . Many only give pH range instead of the actual pH .
2 ) CONTAMINATION RISK : Even when following instructions carefully , there is a greater risk of contamination when testing at home versus in a controlled lab .
Cooperative Extension Soil Testing Pros
1 ) RELIABLE RESULTS : Tests like these are routinely performed by employees of the extension service or lab , so growers can be fairly confident that their samples were properly handled and processed , and that the results are accurate .
2 ) THOROUGHNESS : Depending on the type of test selected , a lab analysis of a soil sample will reveal the presence or absence of many more nutrients than most DIY kits can offer . They usually show a comparison to other area soils sampled or to recommended levels based upon what the growers are intending to grow .
“ It is advisable growers perform a soil analysis at least yearly and even seasonally if they really want to know what ’ s going on in their garden .”
3 ) ANALYSIS : A lab analysis not only tells growers what they have in their soil , it prescribes a course of action for what is needed . Most will tell growers exactly how many pounds of each nutrient or amendment should be added to bring their soils ’ nutrient or organic matter levels to optimum levels . It may also recommend other cultural practices to help growers achieve their growing goals .
Cons
1 ) COST : While not likely to break the bank , growers will generally pay two to three times more for a lab analysis of their soil through a cooperative extension service than if they were to perform the test themselves .
2 ) WAITING FOR RESULTS : If growers need answers right away because they have high-value crops starting to fail , a lab analysis may not yield the results they need in the time frame required to take action and reverse the problem . Samples generally get analyzed in the order they were received and can be held up by weekends , holidays , employee shortages , etc .
Soil is a complex system of biotic and abiotic forces . A soil test is just a snapshot of what is present at the time of the collection . It should not be done once and considered the final word . It is advisable growers perform a soil analysis at least yearly and even seasonally if they really want to know what ’ s going on in their garden .
78 grow cycle