Needing Soil test - Ask Extension
Hello. I am a backyard flower gardener and have lived on my city lot for almost 20 years, and have never had a soil test. I'd like to expand my garden...
Knowledgebase
Needing Soil test #924922
Asked February 22, 2026, 11:40 PM EST
Hello. I am a backyard flower gardener and have lived on my city lot for almost 20 years, and have never had a soil test. I'd like to expand my garden and have been encouraged to get a soil test. Can you suggest how I should do this? Thank you in advance.
Multnomah County Oregon
Expert Response
Hi Marie,
Thank you for using Ask Estension.
Here is a list of soil testing resources
Soil testing resources | OSU Extension Service
there is a really good demonstration video for how to sample your soil but please keep in mind that depending on your goals for the area, you may need to sample separately.
As an example, blueberries need more acidic soil than what you want for vegetables or turf. Depending on what you mean by 'expanding your garden' helps with defining those goals such that you can get effective recommendations.
Thank you for using Ask Estension.
Here is a list of soil testing resources
Soil testing resources | OSU Extension Service
there is a really good demonstration video for how to sample your soil but please keep in mind that depending on your goals for the area, you may need to sample separately.
As an example, blueberries need more acidic soil than what you want for vegetables or turf. Depending on what you mean by 'expanding your garden' helps with defining those goals such that you can get effective recommendations.
