Test Your Own Soil Sample

It’s important to evaluate and understand your soil’s nutrient levels. The best way to learn about your soil’s nutrients is to take a soil sample. This activity will walk you through how to sample your soil and send it in to be tested.

Activity Supplies

• Spade or coring device
• Measuring cup
• Resealable plastic bag
• Soil from your yard or planting site

Activity Steps

1. Collect a cup of soil from your production area. Each cup should be made of 15 small plugs of soil that range from 3 to 4 inches deep.
2. Mix the 15 small samples together in a clean container. Then, remove any grass or debris from the soil mixture and allow the soil to dry.
3. Place a cup of dry soil from your container in a resealable bag and complete the  WVU Soil Testing Lab’s soil submission form. Mail the bag of soil and the completed form to the WVU Soil Testing Lab – the address is located on soil submission form.
4. Once you receive your soil test results via email, contact your local WVU Extension office  if you have any questions or need help interpreting your report.

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