Soil Testing - Ask Extension
How much soil should I bring into my county office to be tested? Is there any special instructions on how I should dig up the sample?
Knowledgebase
Soil Testing #925563
Asked March 07, 2026, 9:23 AM EST
How much soil should I bring into my county office to be tested? Is there any special instructions on how I should dig up the sample?
Greene County Ohio
Expert Response
Hi Cheryl! I'm guessing you're soil testing for a vegetable or flower garden in your yard. If I'm wrong, please correct me because that will change how much soil to send.
I am including the link for soil testing in Greene County because you have to register for it. So just in case you haven't done that, it's below. (I live in Franklin County and we do it a little different here.)
Soil Testing | Greene
For your sample, you want to dig six-ten core samples, all the same depth (4"-6" deep). Put them in a clean bucket and mix it all up. Then measure out a half pint-one pint of soil and put it in a bag. If you use a sandwich baggie, make sure you double-bag it.
Enjoy your garden!!
I am including the link for soil testing in Greene County because you have to register for it. So just in case you haven't done that, it's below. (I live in Franklin County and we do it a little different here.)
Soil Testing | Greene
For your sample, you want to dig six-ten core samples, all the same depth (4"-6" deep). Put them in a clean bucket and mix it all up. Then measure out a half pint-one pint of soil and put it in a bag. If you use a sandwich baggie, make sure you double-bag it.
Enjoy your garden!!
