Put your soil to the test!  The Illinois Extension offices in Clark and Edgar counties have designated the week of May 3-7 as Soil Testing Week. Collect samples on your own and drop them off at either Extension Office. Results and recommendations will be sent to you.
Cost $15 per sample, payable to KSI Labs.

How to Do a Soil Test

Click this link for a great article from Horticulture Educator Ryan Pankau on the importance of soil testing.

INSTRUCTIONS

• Use a probe or dig a hole 6-8 inches deep. Then cut a thin slice down one side. Do not include large pieces of matter such as roots.
• Take at least 3 samples per 100 square feet. Mix together in a clean container. Spread out in a thin layer on paper to air dry.
• Repeat the process for each different area you want to have tested. Bring 1-2 cups of dried soil for each sampled area. Sample bags will be provided by your local Extension Office.

Questions? Call Paris Office 217-465-8585 or Marshall Office 217-826-5422.