Where to send soil samples?

[hamsey]

My last test in 2004 I went to Lesco. They did not check the OM and I would like to go elsewhere this time. I saw a test from UCONN and it is pretty lacking. So I'm thinking about sending it off to UMASS and getting the standard test with OM. Not sure if their test provides the micro nutrients results. I would like to get a complete test this time in preparation for a renovation. Would I be better off using a commercial lab? Can anyone recommend a lab? TIA!

Norm

[andy10917]

The $13 Test with OM from UMASS includes micronutrients - it is the superset of the "Standard Soil Test"

[hamsey]

ANdy,

Thank you. That is where I will send it! I will post the results when I get them.

Norm

[MorpheusPA]

Good idea. I got a fast and very complete response from UMASS and was really happy with them. If you can get the results e-mailed they show up faster...and they send a hard copy to you anyway.

[cactus]

Would I be better off using a commercial lab? Can anyone recommend a lab?

Some private labs may be suited for commercial growers. I've had tests done by two private labs - Texas Plant & Soil Lab (TPSL) and A&L Analytical Laboratories in Tennessee. TPSL uses different (they would claim better) methods than most anyone else and cost a lot more. Maybe it's worth it for growers and land managers, but not for me. A&L gave a pretty report and was cheaper than my state lab for an (almost) equivalent test, but the local extension agent won't officially treat it as reliable.

-Patrick

[PJD]

I got the $13 dollar test from UMass and was happy with the results and the turnaround time.

I wouldn't have been able to understand a lot of it without help from here but i must say I feel it was money well spent.