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Soil Testing

Fillable WVU Soil Testing Form Printable WVU Soil Testing Form How to Complete the Form

Forms are available as PDFs. Download Adobe Acrobat Reader for free, if needed.


Soil testing is the easiest and most reliable method of assessing a soil’s nutrient status. It provides a basis for recommending the correct amount of lime and fertilizer to apply for crops and pastures. Soil testing also allows an expert to predict the probability of obtaining a yield or growth response to lime and fertilizer application.

How Often to Sample

  • Row crops and hayfields: Every one or two years or when crops are rotated.
  • Permanent pastures: Every 3 - 4 years.
  • Vegetable gardens: Every 1 - 2 years.
  • Lawns and turf: Every 3 - 5 years.

West Virginia University offers free soil analysis to residents. Your county Extension agent can assist you in your effort to collect good soil samples and also to understand the results of analysis.

Getting Your Soil Sample Step-by-Step Soil Test Form & Instructions

Mail the sample and the soil test form to the following address:
WVU Soil Testing Lab
Agriculture Sciences Building
PO Box 6108
Morgantown, WV 26506-6108

Call Emily Wells Morrow, Jefferson County Agriculture Extension Agent, for additional help in interpreting the soil test results.