Soil Testing Services
Author Ellen Vande Visse
NOTE: I am listing those with a special focus on organic, ecological, & regenerative agriculture growing methods.
Your local Palmer Farm Research Lab, UAF has been closed permanently as of March 2016
**********
The labs listed below are ones I recommend. They specialize in ecological agriculture and holistic soil health. They provide sustainable growers more comprehensive test results and recommendations than the Cooperative Extension Service test did, or that less expensive tests like Brookside Lab. Cost range is around $45-75; wait time is about 1.5 weeks. You receive results by email. Once you start testing your soil, I recommend you stick with that same lab in subsequent years.
Crop Services International, Inc.
29246 Lake St, Marcellus MI 49067 Organic soil tests and consulting. Choose the Complete Test for an overall soil mineral status. I really appreciate their detailed recommendations.
CSI also carries a comprehensive array of organic soil amendments, including mycorrhizal products, Bio-dynamic Field Broadcasters, homeopathic weed control, and Veges Sound Machines.
Phone: 800-260-7933 E-mail: team@cropservicesintl.com
www.cropservicesintl.com
Timberleaf Soil Testing
39648 Old Spring Road Murrieta CA 92563
Especially for market gardeners who practice the BioIntensive approach of John Jeavons, author of How to Grow More Vegetables… Opt for Basic Soil Test &/or optional tests for organic matter, trace minerals, and composts/greenhouse media.
1-909-677-7510 tmbrlfsoiltest@verizon.net http://www.timberleafsoiltesting.com
Brookside Lab Yes, the price is cheapest ($25), but I do not recommend this lab because they do not provide recommendations, only test results. You’ll need to consult with your Cooperative Extension agent or some Soil & Water Conservation District specialist to interpret results and make recommendations.
For sales-oriented growers—see below for more technical info. Not recommended for beginning gardeners.
International Ag Labs, Inc.
PO Box 788, Fairmont, MN 56031 Biological and organic tests and consulting; also all types of feed, water & plant tissue analysis; soil rehabilitation and health products, mycorrhizal products, etc.
1-507-235-6905 www.aglabs.com
Earthfort Lab Test your soil for microbiology &/or leaf tissue to assess how well your microbial workers are present and functioning & how to best manage for the optimum. 541-257-2612 https://www.earthfort.com/