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How to rebuild wet/clay land from weeds and blackberries to native plant oasis? #927360

Asked April 02, 2026, 2:01 PM EDT

We have a space 30’ x 80’ that is under water in winter and dry clay in summer. It’s been covered with black plastic to keep weeds down for 6 years. Of course grasses, blackberries and Queen Anne’s lace have taken over. I want to remove plastic, dig up blackberries, and remove as many weeds as I can see. Test soil and plant native trees, ornamental grasses, shrubs and ground covers for pollinators and cat nests (without horse tails or other sharp seeds. I have a list of possibilities. Can you advise? How do I test soil? Thank you.

Lane County Oregon

Expert Response

Hello, 

Thank you for reaching out to Ask Extension! If you want to get your soil tested for pH, Lane County Master Gardeners offer soil testing events for $2. It looks like they are offering one this Saturday (April 4): Soil pH Testing | OSU Extension Service

For more comprehensive tests, here are some services commonly used for garden soil testing:

Check the company’s website for fees and instructions on mailing samples. Make sure to send enough soil. There are no local walk-in labs in our area. Everything is mailed these days.

Remember to list what plant you want to grow in the area (vegetables, lawn, fruit trees, blueberries, etc.) and request recommendations with the soil test. Then, you will get specific advice on adjusting the fertilizer rates and pH for optimum growth.

Here’s an OSU Extension article with helpful info on soil testing. It covers collecting samples, the full list of soil testing labs, and how to interpret results.

Good luck and let me know if you have any other specific questions.


Best,  Replied April 03, 2026, 12:51 PM EDT

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