Best Ways to Test Lawn Soil

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When your lawn has brown spots or bare spots, testing the soil of your lawn can help pinpoint missing nutrients or inappropriate ph levels. This information is used to correct the soil and bring your green lawn back.

To test your soil, there is a variety of lawn testing kits. These will measure ph levels, nitrogen levels, and determine if other important nutrient levels are adequate. Lawn soil test kits also measure potassium and phosphorus levels.

To collect test samples of your lawn, use a garden trowel or a large spoon, but not your hands. Oils and dirt on your bare hands can contaminate the sample.

Gather the sample from three inches below the surface. Take several samples from various areas around the lawn. It is best to take samples from the different problem areas, as well as from the healthy grass areas. Place these samples in separate, clear containers with labels.

The sample will then need to settle in water before you can test it. Follow the instructions on your home test kit, and you will be surprised at the accuracy of the results.

Testing lawn soil is going to yield various results, but here is why they are important:

Ph levels: Finding out if the ph level is too high or too low in the soil is easily corrected. It is important because a ph slightly off what it should be will not allow the grass to grow.

Nitrogen: This is the nutrient your soil must have to feed your lawn. Low nitrogen means less healthy grass, which is more vulnerable to disease and pests.

Phosphorus: This chemical stimulates the roots to grow, and is an excellent choice when sodding your lawn.

Potassium: Another important nutrient for helping roots mature early. Especially important for grass grown from seed.