Soil Fertility in Home Lawns

I get questions from people asking what the best type of fertilizer is to use on their yards. My usual reply is: “When was the last time you had your soil tested?” Without a soil test, it’s hard to determine which fertilizers to buy or the amount of lime to apply to raise the soil pH. I always tell people the bene ts of having a soil test done. There’s no need in applying a nutrient that is not needed. For your convenience, we have the soil test bags and forms here at the Extension office. The instructions are listed on the back of the form. Once you have your properly obtained soil in the soil test bag, you will mail it along with the test form and a check for the testing fee to the Soil Testing Lab at College Station. When you receive the results, I can make recommendations if you need me to help. A healthy vigorous turf is what most homeowners want. With that being said, soil fertility is extremely important. The fertilizer application rate will be determined by the soil test report.

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