How healthy is your soil? What nutrients does your lawn or garden really need? We have talked in previous posts about being aware of the fertilizers that you put on your lawn or garden, as excessive nutrients are not good for the Chesapeake Bay. But how do you know what excessive really is? One way to find out is by getting your soil tested. The Maryland Cooperative Extension office at the University of Maryland tested soil in the past, but they do not any longer. Instead, they have published some guidelines and information on where you can send to get your soil tested, and what you are looking for.
A soil test can not only tell you the pH, but also what kind of nutrients might be lacking or overly abundant, and whether there are any levels of heavy metals present. Tests can cost anywhere between $6 and $20, and take anywhere between 1-2 days and 2 weeks to get results based on where you decide to send it. The link below gives information on soil tests and a list of places you can get it done. Once you know more about your soil, you will not necessarily need to apply a broad spectrum fertilizer to your lawn or garden, but instead will be able to add only what is needed. Feel free to improve the quality of your soil and the heath of your plants, but do it in a responsible and educated way that protects the environment.
Maryland Cooperative Extension Soil Testing
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