Soil Testing – Field, Garden & More

sprouting plant being moved

Regardless if you’re growing vegetables in your backyard, managing a zoysia lawn, or preparing to plant soybeans on a 100+ acre field, you need to know what nutrients are already in your soil and at what levels. Factors like soil pH and soil type can play a significant role in how available those nutrients are to your plants. Our UT Soil Lab can run a large variety of tests to help you achieve your crop goals.

The “Nutrient Test” includes: soil pH, buffer pH, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, manganese, iron, sodium, and boron. Crop specific fertilizer and lime recommendations are also included.

The cost is $15.00 per sample plus a flat ($5) shipping fee regardless of the number of samples submitted.


VISIT OUR ONLINE SHOP TO PAY FOR SAMPLING
https://tiny.utk.edu/TheMarionStore


– Useful links from the Soil, Plant & Pest Center –

Field Soil submission sheet​​​ – Use this form for Agronomic, Pasture, Hay, and Commercial Crops

Lawn & Garden Soil submission sheet – Use this form for Homeowner & Commercial Turf -or- Vegetable Crops

Greenhouse or Potting Media submission Sheet – Use this form for Nursery Mixes and Raised Bed Gardens with minimal soil from the ground used.

Soil Sampling Instructions

Heavy Metal screening

Shipping tips

Sample boxes can be picked up at your local county UT Extension office​. You can also fill a sturdy quart plastic bag to submit soil samples

Results will be e-mailed within 3 to 5 business days. If you do not hear from us after the 5th business day, please contact us.

Helpful tips:

  • The sample ID is what you wish to name the sample for your records.
  • The organic matter, soluble salt, or texture measurements will not affect the fertilizer recommendations.
  • For raised beds, compost, potting media, bark, or peat-based mixes, or soils with >50% organic matter please see greenhouse or potting media test​.