Which Soil Test Do I Need?
Available Tests and Fee Schedule
Many different analyses are conducted at the KSU Soil Testing Lab.
The most common tests for Kansas soils are for pH, phosphorus (P), potassium (K), nitrate (NO3), and organic matter. Below are the base packages recommended for most situations.
Package #1 - pH, P and K. This information is sufficient for most home lawns, vegetable and flower gardens. Recommend for gardener using traditional chemical forms of fertilization. Soil testing fee-$20.00.
- Note: Johnson County residents get one free basic soil test per household address. Sample MUST be brought or sent to our office for there to be no charge. If you send your sample directly to the K-State Soil Lab you will be charged by K-State.
Gardeners Package-pH,P, K, Organic Matter and Nitrate levels. This package is recommended for organic gardeners or those who use compost, manure, or other organically and nitrogen rich products in their fertility program. Soil testing fee-$30.00.
Package #2 - pH, P, K, Organic Matter, and Zinc. This package is rarely needed for home gardeners unless they grow crops that require zinc such as fruit and nut crops. Soil testing fee-$25.00.
Package #3-pH, P, K, Calcium, Magnesium, Sodium, and CEC. This package is recommended only for specialty crop growers. (Not recommended for home gardeners.) Soil testing fee-$25.00.
Additional testing is available through the K-State Soil Lab. Please ask about special needs for your soil.
Heavy Metals Testing
Local soil for gardening may have the potential to be contaminated with metals from lead based paint, manufacturing or industry. Gardening in these soils could be potentially harmful. The soil lab can test for the following heavy metals: Lead, Arsenic, Cadmium and Chromium. Complete Heavy Metals Panel Soil testing fee-$35.00. First Metal $20.00. Additional trace elements $5.00 each.
Do You Have Questions?
Have questions? The Garden Hotline is staffed by trained EMG volunteers and Extension staff who will assist you with questions.
Phone: (913) 715-7050
Email: garden.help@jocogov.org