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ExplainerA basic test reports pH and nutrient levels. Without it, feeding is guesswork that can make growth worse.
Extension services and horticultural bodies recommend a soil test before applying fertiliser. Tests report pH and major nutrient levels, which determine whether a deficiency exists at all. Over-application wastes money and contributes to nutrient runoff, which is regulated in several regions.
Fertiliser is sold as a general tonic. Agronomically it is a correction for a measured shortfall, and the measurement costs a fraction of a season's worth of product.
A standard laboratory test returns soil pH plus levels of the major nutrients and, usually, organic matter. pH matters independently of nutrient content: outside a workable range, nutrients present in the soil become less available to plants regardless of how much is added.
Where to get a test
University extension services, national horticultural bodies and commercial laboratories all offer soil analysis. Home kits indicate pH reasonably well but are less reliable for nutrient levels.
This article does not recommend a specific product or brand. Application rates should follow the laboratory's recommendation and the product label, which is a legal document in most markets.
This article is original writing by THRYV. We link to primary reporting and official documents rather than reproducing them.
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