Soil Testing for Home Gardeners

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We are now accepting soil samples 

at our office on Middletown 

Monday through Friday from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.  

No appointment necessary.

Please provide us with at least 5 cups of soil, to ensure there's enough soil to be tested.

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We do soil pH tests in our Middletown Office. Samples submitted for nutrient testing are sent to the Dairy One Lab in Ithaca, NY.


Here is our guide on how to properly take a soil sample.

• A Guide to Homeowners Soil Testing

Learn more about the various types of soil tests available, why you should get your soil tested and what to do with your results. 

• VIDEO: Soil Testing for Home Gardeners

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SOIL pH TEST:

Cost: $5.00 per sample for diagnosis and recommendations.

• Sample collection: With a trowel, go to several sections in the area to be tested. Take a slice 3 - 6" deep from each section. Mix it together to make one sample. Use a tool, not your hands. Air dry soil thoroughly (do not use a microwave).
• If there is a problem area collect two samples for comparison; one from the good area, one from the bad area.
• If you plan test your soil pH annually, consider purchasing a pH Kit from the Cornell Nutrient Analysis Lab.
  • Cornell pH Kit - $25.00 + $7.50 S&H

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SOIL NUTRIENT TEST:

Cost: $20 per sample

• Sample collection: With a trowel, go to several sections in the area to be tested. Take a slice 3 - 6" deep from each section. Mix it together to make one sample. Use a tool, not your hands. Air dry soil thoroughly (do not use a microwave).
• If there is a problem area collect two samples for comparison; one from the good area, one from the bad area.
• Samples are sent to the Dairy One Lab in Ithaca, NY. Turnaround time is approximately 2-3 weeks. Results and recommendations will be emailed to you directly from the lab.
• You can also mail your sample directly to  Dairy One.
  • Taking a Sample - Dairy One
  • Submitting a Sample - Dairy One
  • Soil Submission Form (Form H) - Dairy One
    • We recommend either a Preplant Test (833E) or a Maintenance Test (833M).  Both test for pH, organic matter, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, aluminum, zinc, and manganese.

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SOIL HEAVY METAL TEST:

Cost: $90.00 or $160.00 + Shipping

• Environmental Soil Testing - Penn State Extension
  
  • Total Sorbed Metals Test - $90.00
    • Tests for cadmium, copper, lead, nickel, chromium, and zinc.
  • Total Sorbed Metals Test II plus Mercury - $160
    • Tests for cadmium, copper, lead, nickel, chromium, and zinc plus arsenic, mercury, molybdenum, and selenium.


• Here are some resources that speak to the presence of heavy metals in soil.
  • Should I worry about heavy metals in my garden? - Oregon State University Extension
  • Reducing Lead Hazards in Gardens and Play Areas - Oregon State University Extension
  • Metals in Urban Garden Soils - Cornell University

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COMPOST TESTING:

This test is NOT necessary or recommended  for the average home gardener that amends their gardens with home made compost.

Cost: $45.00 + shipping (Penn State) / $60.00 + Shipping (Cornell)

• To get your compost tested, you should send your sample directly to the lab.
• These tests include analyses for percent solids, organic matter, soluble salts, and carbon:nitrogen ratio.
• Compost tests are offered by both Penn State and the Cornell Nutrient Analysis Lab.
  • Basic Compost Tests -  Penn State
  • Compost Submission Form - Cornell Nutrient Analysis Laboratory 

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If you need help filling out the form or have any questions once you get your results, please contact the Garden Helpline at (845) 343-0664 or email mghelpline@cornell.edu.

If you are not from Orange County, please contact your Local Extension Office. Find you local office here.

If you are a commercial growers, please contact your commodity representative by calling (845) 344-1234. 

Last updated August 26, 2024