Soil Fertility Testing

Each sample is analyzed for water pH, Mehlich buffer lime requirement, and for phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and calcium by the Mehlich 3 (ICP) test. The final report includes the chemical analysis of the soil along with lime and fertilizer recommendations for the crop specified. For agronomic crops, Mehlich 3 zinc, copper and sulfur are also reported.

Standard Soil Test Kits

A soil test kit is not required. See information below for submitting your sample.

Service Fees

Additional Analyses

Fees for additional tests are listed below. Please send check or money order with your sample to cover the cost of the optional test(s) requested. Indicate in writing the optional test(s) desired on the information form that accompanies your soil sample. Fees for optional samples submitted without a test kit include a soil preparation fee.

Service Fees

Submitting Your Sample

Standard soil test kits may be purchased from county offices of Penn State Extension or from commercial firms or garden centers that stock kits for the convenience of their customers. Alternatively, you can print soil submission forms (pdf format) from this site and submit your soil sample(s), with payment, to the laboratory in your own sample container. Multiple sample information forms and kits are also available for individuals submitting three or more samples. The multiple sample forms allow for up to 10 samples per page, therefore, reducing paperwork. If you are submitting your soil for the soil fertility analysis, a sample prep fee is not required.