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.