Now Is The Time For A Soil Test

Most Arkansans do not realize that if you are resident of the state of Arkansas you can have your soil tested for free.

The Fertilizer Tonnage Fee has supported soil testing services and enforcement of fertilizer laws in Arkansas since 1953. This provides free routine testing of soil samples at the Marianna Laboratory. Routine soil analysis includes measurement of soil water pH and extraction of plant available nutrients. It does not matter if you have a farm, garden or just a lawn you can get a free soil test.

Now is the best time to do a soil test, so you can be prepared for springtime, when plants are beginning to grow.

It is a simple procedure, all you need is a digging tool and a container to collect the soil in. The Extension Office does have soil probes that can be checked out.

The goal is to get a uniform sample of the area. Depending on the size of the area, there can be 12 or more samples taken. These samples will need to be taken in a zigzag pattern across the area. Rake aside any mulch or surface litter like leaves or debris. Samples can be taken in pastures, hay fields, gardens, lawns, and around shrubs to a depth of about 4 inches but for mature trees at a depth of 12 inches. The samples for one area should be collected in one container. Mix the collected soil thoroughly from the sample area. Keep different areas separate. Discard rocks, gravels and roots.

Remove one pint of soil from the collected container for the laboratory sample. Place sample in a clean container or zip top bag. Be sure to label each sample with a name that you would recognize for each specific area.

Bring sample(s) to your local County Extension office. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Currently our office is closed to the public. We have a drop box outside the front door. Fill out the sheet on the clipboard and leave the sample. We have a new system where your results will be emailed to you; if you do not have an email, we will mail you a copy of the results.

If you have any question or need, assistance feel free to contact Ronnie Horn, Washington County Extension Service, at 479-444-1755 or email: rhorn@uaex.edu. The Washington County Extension Service is located at 2536 N. McConnell Ave., Fayetteville, Ark. 72704