Knowledgebase
Soil poisoning #880678
Asked August 08, 2024, 10:24 AM EDT
Multnomah County Oregon
Expert Response
I am sorry that you are encountering this issue. The following publication includes information on selecting a soil testing laboratory. it also includes how to choose. There is a table that shows which labs test for contamination. I highly recommend calling them to discuss your situation so they can confirm whether testing is the best path forward.
Types of soil testing
In addition to being tested for acidity, soil can also be tested for potential contamination or for nutrient content. The following resources have more information on different soil tests:
- Should I worry about heavy metals in my garden soil? OSU Extension Service
- Herbicide-Contaminated Compost and Soil Mix: What You Should Know — and What You Can Do About It, OSU Extension Service
How to collect soil samples
To ensure accurate results, you must sample your soil correctly and consistently. The following materials have instructions for collecting soil samples:
- How do I test my garden soil? OSU Extension Service
- How do I collect a soil sample for testing? OSU Extension Service
- A Guide to Collecting Soil Samples for Farms and Gardens, OSU Extension Service
Soil test results
This guide explains how to interpret your soil test results, including how and when to test soil, which test results suggest deficiencies or excessive concentrations and offers solutions to correct soil imbalances: