Soil Testing

What does a UMaine Extension soil test tell me?

What will a soil test tell you:

  • Soil pH levels
  • Nutrient levels in the soil
  • Screen for elevated heavy metals such as Cadmium, Chromium, Nickel, and Lead
  • Lime and fertilizer recommendations

Why should I test my soil?

A soil test will help you to optimize your garden or lawn by providing the information you need to make your soil healthy for a given crop. Test results also provide recommendations for amendments.

When should I take a soil test?

Soil can be tested any time of the year when the ground is not frozen.

How do I take a soil test?

We supply soil test kits for free. They come with an order form, instructions, and a collapsible cardboard box to put your soil sample in. Be sure to read the instruction form carefully.
This video may be helpful to watch before you start Soil Testing

Where do I get a soil test?

There are 2 ways to get a soil test:

  1. Visit our office at 165 East Main Street, Dover-Foxcroft, ME 04426. If our office is not open, we have kits in the mailbox on our porch.
  2. Request a soil test kit from the Maine Soil Testing Lab

Mail the soil test to our soil lab in Orono
Maine Soil Testing Service
5722 Deering Hall
Orono, Maine 04469-5722

Include payment for the amount listed on the back of the form for the services you have chosen. In most cases, the standard test is sufficient for the home gardener.

What if I do no understand my soil test results?

When you receive your soil test results, you can call our office at 207.564.3301 for assistance with interpreting your results and recommendations.

Additional Resources