Soil Testing Services
Author Ellen Vande Visse
NOTE: Your local Palmer Farm Research Lab, UAF was closed permanently in March 2016
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The two labs I recommend below specialize in soil health for organic, ecological, & regenerative agriculture growing methods. They provide sustainable growers comprehensive test results and recommendations.
Cost? Yes. Cost savings? Yes, in more healthy yields, avoiding wasted inputs, and less guessing. You receive results by email. Once you start testing your soil, I recommend you stick with that same lab in subsequent years. REMEMBER: request recommendations!
Crop Services International, Inc.
29246 Lake St, Marcellus MI 49067 Organic soil tests and consulting. Choose the Complete test option for an overall soil mineral status. Then select Recommendations too. You’ll get a customized fertility program for the whole growing season that is easy to read, specific, & detailed.
Phone: 800-260-7933 E-mail: team@cropservicesintl.com
www.cropservicesintl.com
Peaceful Valley Farm Supply
Peaceful Valley Farm Supply has resumed offering soil testing. Choose the Agricultural Soil lab test. You’ll get a booklet to interpret your results. Check out the website’s soil sampling instructions, videos about testing, and how to understand your soil test results.
=-=-=-=-=-=-ones I don’t recommend for gardeners=-=-=-=-=-=-=
For sales-oriented growers—these listed below are for more technical info. Not recommended for beginning gardeners.
Brookside Lab Yes, the price is cheapest (~$25), but this lab because does not provide recommendations, only test results. You’ll need to consult with your Cooperative Extension agent or some Soil & Water Conservation District specialist to interpret results and make recommendations.
International Ag Labs, Inc.
PO Box 788, Fairmont, MN 56031 Biological and organic tests and consulting; also all types of feed, water & plant tissue analysis; soil rehabilitation and health products, mycorrhizal products, etc.
1-507-235-6905 www.aglabs.com
Earthfort Lab Test your soil for microbiology &/or leaf tissue to assess how well your microbial workers are present and functioning & how to best manage for the optimum. 541-257-2612 https://www.earthfort.com/
