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.

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.