Lawn & Garden

Lawn, Garden, and Landscaping

Soil testing is the first step in proper plant nutrition for lawns, gardens, and landscaping plants. In addition to the agriculture industry, AGVISE Laboratories provides soil analysis services to homeowners, turf and lawn care professionals, and small-scale commercial fruit and vegetable producers. A soil test can tell you the current nutrient status of your soil and how much fertilizer is required to achieve optimum plant growth for your lawn or garden.

A soil test will evaluate the soil nutrient status, soil pH, soil salinity, and soil organic matter content. Based on the soil test levels, you will receive nutrient guidelines for lawns and vegetable gardens. This information will help you decide what type of fertilizer to purchase and how much to apply.

How to Submit Soil Samples

Download and print the Soil Submission Form for Homeowner Lawn, Garden, and Landscaping. This form includes information on recommended soil analysis options, pricing, and instructions for soil sample collection and shipping.

Soil Sampling Instructions

Collect soil sample from 0-6 inch soil depth. Use a soil probe or garden shovel/trowel to collect a small scoop of soil.
- Scrape away surface letter, grass, or leaves. Remove any stones.
Repeat this process at 4-6 locations for small lawns and gardens or 12-15 locations for large lawns and gardens.
- Collect soil samples from similar areas (appearance, landscape, use).
- Problem areas should be soil sampled separately.
Mix soil together thoroughly in a clean bucket and transfer to soil sample bag.
- The soil sample should be about 2 cups.
- Place soil in a standard soil sample bag or 1-quart Ziploc bag.
- Label the soil bag clearly with an identifying sample ID (e.g., Front Lawn, Vegetable Garden, Tree Row).
Ship the soil sample to AGVISE with completed submission form and payment.
- Do not place paperwork or payment inside the soil bag (paper can get soggy).
- If shipping will be delayed more than one day, refrigerate the soil sample until you are ready to ship.