Fall is the Perfect Time to Have Your Soil Tested

Fall is the Perfect Time to Have Your Soil Tested

Contact: Sharon Keeler
603-862-1566
UNH Media Relations

October 10, 2003

DURHAM, N.H. -- Although it may seem unconventional, fall is an ideal time to have soil tested. The soil pH and nutrient content of soil changes very little over the winter and additionally, lime application, if needed, is very effective if done in the fall.

The University of New Hampshire Analytical Services Lab is ready to test soil samples and UNH Cooperative Extension will provide lime and fertilizer recommendations.

Soil samples can be submitted in person, by mail, or through the Cooperative Extension Service in each county. Mail submission is especially quick and easy.

Two complete soil test packages are offered for homeowners:

1. Organic Gardening (pH, nutrients and organic matter with lime and organic fertilizer recommendations) $17.00

2. Standard Gardening (pH, nutrients with lime and non-organic fertilizer recommendations) $12.00

Information on taking a good soil sample is included on soil testing forms which can be obtained by visiting the Cooperative Extension web site at www.ceinfo.unh.edu (click on `Ag. Resources' and `Plants' or by calling 603-862-3210.) Soil testing forms can also be obtained from your local county Cooperative Extension office.

The lab analyzes soil samples for pH and nutrient content using the latest soil testing procedures and equipment and provides computer generated lime and fertilizer recommendations for specific crop needs. Results are normally reported during the next two working days following submission to the lab. Test results and recommendations can be returned by e-mail if requested.

For further information contact the Soil Testing Lab at the Analytical Services Lab, Spaulding Life Science Center, 38 College Road, Durham, NH 03824, 603-862-3210 or at Soil.Testing@unh.edu or the Cooperative Extension web site at www.ceinfo.unh.edu. The lab is open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3:30 p.m., except on recognized UNH holidays.