Soil testing is an important aspect for desert gardens.
Chemical analysis of soil can only be done by a laboratory. Most cooperative extension services (county agent offices) offer soil tests for a small fee. The test will provide data on pH measurements and composition of minerals. Some even include tests for microorganisms.
Do-it-yourself kits are available. They have varying degrees of accuracy.
To collect a sample for testing, do the following:
- Collect about two pounds of soil. Make sure it contains only soil and no plant material.
- Take the sample from the top six to eight inches of soil only (because that's the zone your plants will be growing in).
- Collect the soil from various areas of the areas you want to cultivate.
- Do not collect soil closer than a foot to any structure. Paint and other materials can contaminate the soil close to the buildings.
- Mix all the soil you have collected and put about two pounds of it into a plastic bag.
- Take the bag to your county agent's office or nearest extension service.
The final report will then be mailed to you.
Related article: Soil in A Desert Garden.
See also USDA Cooperative Extension Service for the office nearest you.
The copyright of the article What is Soil Testing? in Desert Gardens is owned by Robert Dailey. Permission to republish What is Soil Testing? in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
