Learn Your Soil's Secrets with a Soil Test

A soil test is one of the best investments a gardener can make, especially if, no matter how hard you try, your landscape plants and lawn just don't have that vibrant healthy look. Or, if you're about to embark on a serious landscaping project and want some insurance that all the new plants will thrive.

The results of a soil test help solve and prevent problems. They determine your soil's pH and whether or not it needs to be raised or lowered to better accommodate healthy growth. A soil test also measures your soil's nutrient content and recommends which fertilizers or amendments to add.

Nurseries and garden centers sell do-it-yourself soil kits, but even though they can be helpful, often they don't supply enough precise information. In many states your cooperative extension service will test your soil for a fee. You can also find many private soil-testing labs in the yellow pages.