The lab's recommendations for using limestone to raise pH are valid, since the current pH level is fairly low (it would make blueberries happy, and perhaps some acid-loving ornamental shrubs like azaleas and rhododendrons, but for most fruits, it's lower than it should be). As the lab notes, the lead level is quite low, so exposure risk is minimal and no soil remediation is needed in that regard. It's surprising the phosphorus [P] level is that low, but amendment with phosphate fertilizer will help to raise it.

One of the primary goals for more routine fertilization for establishing and mature fruit and vegetable plants is providing nitrogen [N] since it's the nutrient plants need in the greatest quantity. (Labs don't test for it, though, since soil N levels fluctuate too much naturally for a point-in-time measurement to be very impactful.) The "excessive" magnesium [Mg] level in the upper swale area is not a problem by itself and does not need to be remedied. You may have already browsed this resource, but in case not, our Understanding Your Soil Test Report web page provides more feedback.

Aside from an initial adjustment to pH and/or key nutrient deficiencies (P in this case), no routine or repeat fertilizer doses are usually needed for ornamental plants like flowering shrubs, evergreens, and shade or flowering trees. Therefore, lab recommendations for a "maintenance" fertilization program for the flower bed and flowering tree "crops" can probably be skipped unless a soil test around three years later still shows issues with pH level or P availability.

If useful, we also have fertilization recommendations, plus other cultivation tips, in these resource pages:

• Fruits for the Home Garden (a landing page of sorts for a variety of specific fruit crops as well as general care and setup info.)
• Fertilizing Vegetables
• Garden Fertilizer Basics

Miri

Hi Miri,

You're welcome.