The kit contains a questionnaire and an extensive set of instructions to help landowners collect a representative soil sample. Guidelines include advice on when to collect soil samples, site selection, tips on extraction, and how often soil testing should be conducted. Landowners are also asked to indicate their intended use of the land on the questionnaire through the selection of a crop code. Standard tests include analysis for pH, lime requirement, available phosphorous, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Recommendations based on the results are geared towards the landowner's intended use.
Standard testing is free.
Upon request and for a nominal fee, other tests can be made. Landowners should send samples well in advance of the need for recommendations and allow about three weeks for processing the samples. Samples sent to the laboratory between March and June may take longer to process. For additional information or to obtain a soil test kit and questionnaire, please contact the county office of the WVU Extension Service. The Division of Plant and Soil Sciences offers undergraduate programs in agronomy, horticulture, environmental protection, and basic sciences.