Soil Testing

We’ll be testing for soil pH only. For more extensive tests you will need to go to the UMass Soil Testing Lab.
A donation of $1 per sample is requested.

Why Test?
• to optimize plant growth.
• to protect the environment from contamination by runoff and leaching of excess fertilizers.
• to aid in the diagnosis of plant culture problems.
• to improve the soil’s nutritional balance.
• to save money and conserve energy by applying only the amount of lime and fertilizer needed.

Schedule - 2010
Springfield - Farmer's Market in Forest Park, use the Trafton Road entrance.  Every Tuesday, 12:30 to 4 pm from May to the end of September
Chicopee - Wednesdays, July 7 to September 8, 11 am to 3:30 pm on Chicopee St. in Willimansett.
For advice on taking a soil sample, click here.

How to sample your soil for testing by the WMMGA

1. When soils are distinctly different or growing different types of plants (ex. lawns, vegetables), sample separately.
2. Areas where there is poor growth should be tested separately.
3. Using a trowel or spade, take thin slices of the soil at locations evenly spaced in your lawn or garden as indicated below. For small areas, use fewer slices; for large areas, use more slices.

KIND OF CROP                            # OF SLICES TO SAMPLE                   SAMPLING DEPTH
Lawns                                                          10 or more                                      top 3-4 inches
Flowers, Vegetables and Small Fruits            10 or more                                      top 6-8 inches

Put slices of soil into a large, clean plastic container or bag and mix thoroughly. Take about one cup of soil mixture and put in a small plastic bag or container. Allow to dry if possible, especially if muddy. Label each sample.

Avoid taking soil which has recently been limed or fertilized.