The Importance of Soil Testing
Soil testing is economically prudent. The appropriate application of nutrients and/or lime can save money. Don't buy nutrients that your soil doesn't need; instead, invest in those nutrients that will bring about healthy growth and yields. You can get a Soil Testing Kit from your Rutgers Cooperative Extension County Office or download the form from Rutgers website; and send the samples in your own package with payment. The documents will provide details about taking soil samples and submitting them for fertility analysis. Choose the version under the appropriate category. A questionnaire should be filled out and sent in with each sample.
Or you stop by one of their many offices. http://njaes.rutgers.edu/soiltestinglab/. Home, Lawn & Garden Rutgers is there to help you.
Rutgers Soil Testing Laboratory
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
57 US Highway 1
New Brunswick, NJ 08901-8554
Telephone: 848-932-9295
Email: soiltest@njaes.rutgers.edu
Hours: Monday - Friday
Whether in an urban, suburban or rural landscape, tending the home or garden comes with a number of challenges involving insects, weeds, trees, shrubs, turf and critters. New Jersey residents spend significant time and money coping with these challenges--but not alone, thanks to the vast array of services offered by Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station (NJAES).
Cooperative Extension, a unit of the experiment station, serves homeowners through factsheets, master gardener hotlines, workshops, and services that test soil and diagnose plant disease. While extension personnel and master gardeners are on the frontlines providing information to residents, Rutgers researchers are working behind the scenes developing plant and turf varieties that are more resistant, drought tolerant, or environmentally friendly by requiring less input.Everyone is welcome to stop by any Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station. Here is one for Middlesex County.
Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County, Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station, 42 Riva Avenue, North Brunswick, NJ 08902-4732