Soil testing could not be more important preceding tasks like establishing a new garden, diagnosing plant problems, determining fertilizer needs — and much more. But some situations don't require the ...

GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — Understanding the texture of your garden soil is crucial for successful planting and gardening. Soil texture affects water retention, drainage, aeration, and nutrient ...

Most gardeners know that success depends on many factors: You can’t grow a sun-loving plant in a shady area, for example. And a shrub that loves wet places won’t do well in dry soil. But the most ...

In my 40 years of teaching and consulting, one of the biggest and most frustrating problems I continually encounter is when so called “landscape professionals” and homeowners continue to apply annual ...

Before planting in the spring, a soil test will give you a snapshot of what your garden needs – taking the guesswork out of fertilizer rates. With the growing season approaching, now is the perfect ...

I often mention my veg patch’s clay soil in this column, and that’s because soil type affects what we grow and how. Getting to know your soil is an essential part of becoming a great grower of edible ...

Whether you’re growing tomatoes, managing crops or striving for the perfect lawn, soil testing is key to success. A soil test identifies nutrient levels and soil fertility, ensuring your plants get ...

For home gardeners, soil testing is valuable to establish a base line on soil limitations related to pH, salt levels and the need for phosphate and potash fertilizers. In some gardening situations, ...