Spring has arrived and along with garden clean up, we need to remember our soil and the condition of it. The best way to avoid soil problems is to keep it healthy. By taking samples to your local extension office, they will be able to determine if there are nutrient deficiencies or if the soil pH is interfering with nutrient availability. Many testing sites will also provide recommendations on actions required to correct nutrient deficiencies.

I also learned from the extension office when you have your soil tested that you cannot take just one sample and expect that to be the answer to all of your soil needs. Take a sample from different beds and make sure to label your bags so you know what dirt came from where. So, if you are having issues with plants not doing well in a particular area, it could be that the soil needs some nutrients added. A soil test will help with many of your issues.

To learn a little more about soil and testing, more information can be found at:

http://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/hyg-1132