[Image: How to Take Soil Samples]W. Matt Gwin
LSU AgCenter Assistant Extension Agent, 4-H and Horticulture, Richland Parish
If you grow ornamentals, trees, vegetables, fruits, turf grass, or even just house plants, soil sampling is one of the most important tools a homeowner can use to achieve an optimum growing environment. It is an effective way to determine the soil’s pH and the nutrient levels in the soil. Soil tests can help save time and money as well as encourage a healthy environment by reducing unnecessary fertilizer use.
There are sixteen chemical elements that are important for a plant’s growth and survival. These elements are divided into two groups: non-mineral and mineral nutrients. Non-mineral nutrients include hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon. Since plants get these nutrients from the air and water, there is little a homeowner can do to control how much of these nutrients a plant can use. The remaining thirteen nutrients, six macronutrients and 7 micronutrients, are found in the soil. The three primary macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium) are required in relatively large amounts whereas the three secondary macronutrients (calcium, magnesium, and sulfur) are required in moderate amounts. Micronutrients, which are just as important as macronutrients, are needed in very small amounts. If any of these sixteen essential elements are not present in adequate amounts, plant growth and development will decrease. On the other hand, if any of these nutrients are at excessive levels, they can become toxic to plants. Soil samplings will aide homeowners in keeping the mineral nutrients at satisfactory levels.
Soil sampling can be done at any time during the year although now is a great time to get it done! Testing your soil now gives adequate time for the recommendations to be applied and react with the soil prior to spring planting. If you are interested in getting your soil tested please contact the Richland Parish Extension office for step-by-step instructions. If you are familiar with the soil sampling process, bring your sample to the Richland Parish Extension office along with a check for $7.00 to be mailed for a general analysis.
For more information contact your local Extension office at 728-3216 and/or visit our Web site: www.lsuagcenter.com/richland.