K-State Research and Extension Rawlins County

Soil Testing

Soil Testing in Rawlins County, Kansas

What is a soil test? A soil test measures soil pH and available nutrients in the soil. It cannot identify insects, diseases, or chemical pollutants, and cannot answer questions about soil composition, drainage or compaction.

Why test the soil? Testing the soil gives you accurate information about the type and amount of fertilizer or amendment to apply in order to maintain good plant health. This helps protect the environment, and can save you money and time.

How to take a good soil sample Test results will only be as reliable as the sample collected, so proper methods are important.

Follow these steps:

  • Using a clean shovel or soil probe, dig down to a depth of:
    • 3 inches for lawns,
    • 6 inches for vegetables, flowers and small fruits,
    • 10 to 12 inches for trees and shrubs.

  • Take at least 4 - 5 samples from the area to be tested. Mix samples together in a clean, plastic container. Remove all plant material or debris.

  • Bring two cups of the mixed soil to the Johnson County Extension Service in a resealable, quart-size plastic bag.
    • Create separate samples for each area you want to have tested.
    • Avoid sampling overly wet soil, and soil that has been recently fertilized.
    • Samples should be dry. Do not use heat to dry your sample.

Soil Test Request Form Select the correct form below for the type of plantings in the soil you want tested. Print the form and answer all the questions as completely as possible.

To give you the best recommendations, we need to know about fertilization practices, soil amendments, mowing (turf) and any special problems in the test area.

Bring or mail:

  1. Completed form,

  2. Bagged soil, and

  3. Check or cash for the desired test to: (Make checks payable to: Rawlins County Extension Council.)

Rawlins County Extension

312 State Street
Atwood, KS 67730

Office hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Lab Results Samples are sent to the Soil Testing Laboratory at Kansas State University. Their results will be analyzed by our agent in Rawlins County, and a report will be mailed to you.

The average time required to complete the analysis for lawn or garden samples is 2 – 3 weeks. During the spring season, this turn-around time may take longer due to the increase in samples volume. Please take this into consideration in your planning.

**NOTE: All specimens will be charged an additional $6.00 for shipping.