Soil Sample FAQs

1. When should soil be sampled?

Soil samples can be taken at any time during the year; however, avoid extremely wet soil conditions unless absolutely necessary.

2. How often should I have my soil tested?
For most crops, every 2 to 3 years. Soil under intensive cultivation may require annual testing. Sampling from any given area should be done at about the same time as in previous years.

3. What tool shall I use for sampling?
A soil probe or auger is best; if not available, use a garden spade, shovel or trowel.

4. What is the proper sampling depth?

For cultivated crops and gardens, sample at 0 - 1" and another at 1 - 6" depth.
For lawns and pastures, a sample from the upper 6" is satisfactory; remove plant residue.
For tree and fruit crops, 2 samples should be submitted, one taken at 0 - 8" depth, the other at 8 - 16" (subsoil layer).

5. How do I go about collecting the sample?
With a shovel, dig a hole to the sampling depth. Cut a ½" slice from the face of the hole and trim the sides so you have a vertical slice of soil.

6. How many sub-samples should I collect from each area?
Repeat the sampling process in about 10 - 15 locations throughout the garden or field. Mix the sub-samples in a plastic bucket to obtain a representative composite sample. Avoid sampling in unusual areas if the objective is to estimate average fertility levels over the entire area.

7. What if I have an area of poor crop growth?
If you have a trouble spot, a separate sample taken from this area may be necessary.

8. Should the sample be dry?
Do not bring in wet samples. If it is necessary to sample wet soil, spread the sample on a sheet of newspaper and allow it to dry at room temperature.

9. How much soil is needed for each composite sample?
About two cups are required.

10. Where do I bring samples?

 Drop off your sample(s), form & payment at Wight & Patterson at 8 Miner Street, Canton, NY. Dairy One picks up samples weekly at that location. You can also drop them off at the Cooperative Extension Office and we can take them to Wight & Patterson for you.

11. How long will it take to get test results? 

Complete nutrient tests take about 1 - 2 weeks. Results are mailed from the lab directly to you.

12. What if I have questions about the results?

Master Gardeners at the Growline can help you interpret them. Email SLCGrowline@gmail.com or call 315-379-9192 ext 239.

13. How much does the test cost?
Standard nutrient test - $13.50 per sample (as of Spring 2023).
Payable when sample is submitted.

Last updated March 28, 2023