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The Garden FAQ Index |
What will I learn from a soil test?
A soil test will identify the soil's capacity to retain water and air depending on the textural classification and organic matter content. It will indicate the texture of your soil as mainly sand, silt, clay or loam (a mixture of the three). Soluble salts are measured because high salt levels can restrict a plant's water uptake. Nitrate nitrogen is tested, however levels are in constant flux due to microorganisms, temperature, and water leaching. A soil test will show that phosphorus and potassium is sufficient in most established yards throughout the Front Range, but vegetable gardens can show deficiencies. Testing will also be done for micronutrient concentrations of zinc, iron, copper and manganese. With this information, you will know what amendments will create a fertile soil for your landscape.
Credit for information from the following sources: Denver Botanic Gardens, MSU Extension Office, Colorado State University Cooperative Extension
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