Sometimes when your plant growth seems to be a problem you may need to test your soil. Use a soil probe, spade, or shovel to sample the soil profile to a depth of 8-12 inches. It is important to obtain a representative sample of the soil in the root zone rather than from the surface soil.
It is advisable to take at least 10 to 15 samples around your garden area, then combine these in a clean bucket or pail. This provides a representative sample of the entire garden area.
From the bucket or pail, select about a pint of soil. Special soil sample containers are available from your local K-State Extension office or a fertilizer supplier. You may use a clean milk carton, ice cream container, or similar package. Label it with your name, address, and information on the garden crops to be grown. If you send more than one sample, be sure to label each plainly.
Be sure to keep garden soil separate from lawn soil.
Your local extension office will send it to the Kansas State University soil testing laboratory. Recommendations will be made on the amounts of fertilizer to use on your garden. Rely on your local agent for information and advice concerning your garden.
Please note: The K-State Extension office is moving to 215 S. Pine in January of 2026! Please call ahead to ensure when our office will be open!
