Soil Tests: Get the Dirt on Your Garden

Want a healthier, more productive garden? Start with your soil. A soil test is one of the easiest—and most affordable—ways to ensure your plants get exactly what they need to thrive.

A green shoot grows up through the soil towards light.

A soil test is one of the most effective—and affordable—ways to improve your garden’s health. Penn State’s standard soil test measures pH and key nutrients including nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S). Your results come with customized recommendations for fertilizer use, pH adjustments with lime or sulfur, and application timing—all based on the plants you’re growing.

How to Get a Soil Test Kit

You have two convenient options:

1. Print and Prepare Your Own

Download and print the Soil Fertility Submission Form and Soil Sampling Instructions
Use your own plastic baggie for the soil sample
Mail the sample, form, and $10 payment directly to the lab

Cost: $10 for the standard test. Cash or check made out to Penn State University (plus shipping)
Optional add-ons available—see Soil Testing Information
Note: You are responsible for postage. Mark the package PARCEL to avoid return by USPS.

2. Buy a Kit from a Penn State Extension Office

Each $10 kit includes:

Submission form
Plastic sample bag
Pre-addressed mailing envelope
Prepaid standard soil test

Payment: Cash or check made out to Penn State University
Shipping note: You are responsible for postage. Be sure to mark your package PARCEL.

📍Office Location: Penn State Extension – Washington County,
Crossroads Building, 95 W Beau Street, Suite 100, Washington, PA 15301
Call ahead to confirm staff availability: 724-207-2010

How to Submit Your Sample

Follow the instructions to collect your soil sample—it only takes a few minutes.
Let the sample air-dry, mix it thoroughly, and place it in the sample bag.
Mail the sample, form, and payment (if needed) to the lab.

You’ll receive your results about 7–10 business days after the lab receives your sample.

Why Test Your Soil?

Soil fertility changes over time. Test every 2–3 years to stay on track.
Most plants prefer slightly acidic soil (pH 6.1–6.9). Acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas do best at pH 4.5–6.0.
Fall is an ideal time to test—lime has time to adjust the pH before spring planting.
Save money by avoiding unnecessary fertilizers and amendments.
Help protect the environment by reducing nutrient runoff into waterways.

Read Penn State Extension Article: Don't Guess... Soil Test