You are here

When is the best time to take soil samples?

Soil samples can be taken any time throughout the year. It is important though to sample approximately the same time of the year. Late summer, or early fall, is a good time for most crops. This allows time for lime recommended to react and change the pH before the crop is planted. Collect soil samples 3-6 months before planting.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

News

Soil testing boxes full of soil waiting to be tested.
Filed Under: Agriculture, Soils, Soil Acidity, Soil Fertility, Soil Health, Soil Testing, Lawn and Garden, Turfgrass and Lawn Management September 21, 2023

Early fall is one of the best times to test your soil. A soil test can tell you if your lawn or garden needs critical nutrients and how much. This way, your plants and your wallet will stay healthy. You won’t waste your money applying fertilizer or lime that your plants don’t need.

A woman works in a laboratory.
Filed Under: Sweet Potatoes, Soil Testing, Plant Disease and Nematode Diagnostic Services March 23, 2023

Sweet potato growers in Mississippi can get free nematode testing of soil samples they send to Mississippi State University from now until Dec. 31, 2024. The samples can be submitted in nematode bags available at local county MSU Extension Service offices; samples are also accepted in quart-sized, sealed plastic bags.

Woman in blue lab coat holding up paper.
Filed Under: Soils, Soil Health, Soil Testing August 5, 2022

Having healthy soil in your garden results in healthy plants. Whether you’re planting vegetables, flowers, grass, trees, shrubs, or anything in between, a soil sample is the first thing to check off the list. Gathering a soil sample from your landscape and having it tested by MSU Extension’s Soil Testing Lab should be the initial step in any gardening adventure. Plus, it’s pretty easy to do!

Contact Your County Office

Your Extension Experts

Portrait of Dr. Keri Denley Jones
Laboratory Coordinator