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 Home Gardeners:

Home Gardeners (Non-commercial) can receive assistance through our Master Gardener Volunteer Program. 

Soil Test Kits (Complete Soil Nutrient Analysis):

We provide the test kits for Soil Fertility – Soil pH and nutrient availability (with recommendations) through Rutgers University. 

The cost for Full Analysis Testing (includes pH & nutrients) is $25.00 per sample. CASH OR CHECK ONLY

You can pick up the soil kit at our office and mail it yourself with the choice of your mailing courier. 

Kits can be picked up M-F from 9am-4pm at the Dutchess County Farm & Home Center.

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 drop off a soil sample, please call the office to make an appointment. 

The cost is $30.00 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 November 8, 2024