Soil testing services are available through the University of Florida’s Extension Soil Testing Laboratory in Gainesville. The laboratory offers a soil pH and lime requirement test for $3.00 per sample and a soil fertility test (which includes pH, lime requirement and levels of phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium) for $7.00 per sample. The pH and lime requirement test is usually more useful to the average home gardener.

You can pick up a kit which includes an information sheet, mailing carton and sample bags at our office at 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, Monday thru Friday, 8am-5 pm.  If this is not convenient, you can print the information form,package the soil samples in sandwich bags and ship them in your own box. Follow the directions on the information sheet on collecting the sample(s), payment, and shipping. You would ship the samples directly to the laboratory by whatever method you choose. Shipping is not included in the cost of the testing. Information form is available at  http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/SS/SS18700.pdf .

If you have questions you can call our Lawn and Garden Help Line Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm.