A soil test will tell you what nutrients are in your soil and what you may need to add (in the form of fertilizer) for successful crop growth. Plants need nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium (macronutrients) as will as micronutrients to grow. Deficiency or excess of these elements will impact the health and productivity of plants. In addition, the pH (acid/alkaline level) of your soil has an impact upon how much of your soil's nutrients your plants will be able to use. CCE Hamilton can provide or arrange several different tests for your soil, and can help you to interpret the results and choose an appropriate course of action if necessary.
A pH test measures the acid/alkaline level of your soil. In the pH scale, 7.0 is considered neutral; lower numbers indicate acid
Soil samples for nutrient analysis may be brought to our office and we will send them to the Agro-One Soils Laboratory in Ithaca for testing. The cost for the test is $12 and includes the postage fee. Copies of the test results are returned to the individual and to CCE Hamilton about one week later, and you can contact us if necessary for assistance in interpreting your results.
Standard soil nutrient test $10/sample
This test provides recommendations for establishment and maintenance of home lawns and gardens, commercial turf, commercial vegetables, commercial fruit, and field crops (pasture, hay, annual crops). Measures pH (in water), phosphorous, potassium, calcium, magnesium and micro nutrients including organic matter. Samples are sent to Agro-One Lab located at 730 Warren Rd., Ithaca. Expect at least one week for test results to be returned.
Download and print the FORM to include with your soil test samples. (NOTE: when you visit the link, you will see a list of different forms. For testing home garden soils, download and print Submittal Form H for Lawn, Garden and Landscapes and Form H2 if you are submitting multiple samples).
Additional tests (available through Agro-One)
Last updated July 26, 2019