Soil Testing

Why Test Soil?

A soil test will tell you what nutrients are in your soil and what you may need to add (in the form of fertilizer) for successful crop growth. Plants need nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium (macronutrients) as well as micronutrients to grow. Deficiency or excess of these elements will impact the health and productivity of crops. In addition, the pH (acid/alkaline level) of your soil has an impact upon how much of your soil's nutrients your plants will be able to use. CCEDC can provide or arrange several different tests for your soil and can help you to interpret the results and choose an appropriate course of action if necessary.

For Homeowners:

Soil testing for home gardens is conducted by Rutgers University in NJ. 

If you would like to purchase a soil sample kit, please call the office to make sure someone is available.

The cost is $25.00 per soil sample. CASH OR CHECK ONLY

Please visit here Rutgers Soil Testing Homepage for testing instructions.

For Commercial Growers and Farmers:

Commercial and Farm producers can receive assistance through Agricultural Program Educators.

Full soil testing is conducted by Dairy One Lab in Ithaca.

If you would like to purchase a soil sample kit, please call the office to make sure someone is available.

The cost is $35.00 per soil sample. CASH OR CHECK ONLY

Click below for submission forms:

• Commercial Field Corp A .PDF
• Commercial Vegetable Crops V. PDF
• Form F-Commercial Fruit, Hops, & Christmas Trees. PDF
• Form T-Commercial Turf. PDF

Please visit here Dairy One for testing instructions and other forms.

Last updated June 24, 2026