Now is the time to start planning for next year’s garden. The first step in those plans should include getting a soil test so you have your soil prepared and amended by spring.

Now is also a good time to get a soil test while they are free, before the peak-season testing fee starts. The soil test fee begins after the Thanksgiving holiday, continues through March, costing $4 per sample.

A soil test, offered by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture, allows you to learn about your soil’s pH and fertility.  Boxes and forms are available at the N.C. Cooperative Extension – Wayne County Center (3114B Wayne Memorial Drive, Goldsboro).  After you submit a soil sample, you will receive a report via email a few weeks later.  The report will provide important information about your soil, like pH and nutrient levels, and will give you fertilizer and lime recommendations needed to reach optimum soil conditions.

Turnaround time on soil test results can vary from 3 to 6 weeks.  If you are considering sending off a soil test, now would be a good time so you can have your results and start planning for next year’s garden.

When you collect a soil sample, there are a few things to keep in mind to get the best results.  As you prepare for collecting samples, you want to consider how many separate samples you should collect.  You will want to collect samples based on what types of plants you are growing.  On the form, you will indicate the types of plants you are growing so recommendations will be tailored for them.  For example, you may collect separate samples for your vegetable garden, lawn, and flower beds.  Another aspect to consider when deciding how many samples to collect is to look at areas that may vary in soils type or drainage.  If you were going to collect a sample for your lawn, you would probably want to collect separate samples for the front and back lawn.  You will also want to collect separate samples for acid-loving plants like centipede grass, blueberries, and azaleas.  These plants prefer soils to be more acidic (lower soil pH) than other plants.

As you collect a sample, you want to collect several (6 to 10) “mini-samples” randomly within the area.  Then mix the samples in a bucket before putting them in the box that will be sent for testing.  This method will provide a better representation of the entire area and lead to better results.

Once you receive your results, you will find a lot of information on soil pH, phosphorus, potassium, lime and fertilizer recommendations.  This information can sometimes be overwhelming, but don’t worry – the N.C. Cooperative Extension – Wayne County Center office is available to help you understand your report and determine what amendments your soil needs.

Healthy soil is the foundation of a successful garden, and having your soil tested is a small investment of time that yields significant results. It removes the guesswork from fertilizing and amending your soil. By getting your soil tested now, you’ll have ample time to prepare your garden and landscape, leading to healthier plants in the next growing season.

Jessica Strickland is an Agriculture Extension Agent, specializing in horticulture for North Carolina Cooperative Extension in Wayne County.

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