A Penn State Analytical Services Laboratory soil analysis is organized into separate sections.

The first section contains your identifying information and crop selection. Review this information closely to assure you have received the correct report. If the information is not correct, contact the laboratory at the address on the form and secure the correct information for your soil sample. This analysis is appropriate for the current season and for the crops selected for the soil analysis.

Soil nutrient levels are the next section of the report. Listed on the left side are soil pH, Phosphate (P2 05), Potash (K2O), Magnesium (MgO), and Calcium (CaO).

To the right of each nutrient is a bar chart which indicates whether the nutrient is “Below Optimum,” “Optimum,” or “Above Optimum.” The length of the bar indicates the ranking within the category. For example, a bar ending on the left side of the “Optimum” category indicates the low side of optimum, while a bar ending on the right side of “Optimum” indicates a result that is approaching “Above Optimum.” If the bar extends out of the range, there is an excess of that nutrient that may need attention. This finding may be addressed in the “Messages” section of the report.

These nutrients, as well as the soil pH, are the most important factors to address in soil health. Soil pH is measured as neutral (7.0), acidic (7.0). For example, an alkaline soil is needed for lawns and most flowers and vegetables, while an acidic soil is needed for oak and pine trees, blueberries and raspberries. The soil pH may need to be more alkaline or acidic for growing vegetables, based on the soil analysis.

Phosphate or phosphorous is important for cell division and new tissue growth; when phosphorous is added to soil, root growth is stimulated and winter hardiness is promoted.

Potash (potassium) promotes plant growth and reproduction, as well as processes related to photosynthesis and water uptake and regulation.

Magnesium serves as a foundation for photosynthesis, which includes chlorophyll production that gives leaves their green color.

Calcium helps to maintain a proper chemical balance as well as reduce soil salinity (salt) and promote water penetration.

Recommendations for the quantities of limestone, epsom salts and/or gypsum to correct pH, calcium and magnesium levels are provided first. Limestone makes the soil pH more alkaline, while magnesium and gypsum bring magnesium and calcium levels to the optimal range.

If the soil pH, magnesium and calcium levels are optimum or above optimum, there would be no amendments given in this section.

Recommendations for the amounts of nitrogen, phosphate and potash are listed next. These recommendations are given in pounds per 100 square feet (lbs/square feet).

Measure the square footage of your vegetable garden to determine the amount of fertilizer to apply. Nitrogen promotes growth, and is the N of the Nitrogen (N), Phosphate (P) and Potash (K) in fertilizer mixes. N-P-K recommendations are given to amend phosphate and potash levels that are below optimal levels. Sulfur would be added to bring an alkaline or neutral soil to an acidic range.

The messages section provides additional information about the recommendations and organic material. The Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) is addressed here. CEC is the capacity of the soil to hold positively charged cations such as the potassium (K+), magnesium (Mg++) and calcium (Ca++). If the CEC of the soil is less than 15, one inch of organic matter should be added. This organic matter can be composted manure, vegetative compost or peat moss.

Laboratory results, notes and comments are the last section of the report and provide actual analytical results and general information about fertilizers and soil conditioning.

Take a copy of your analysis to a reputable nursery or garden center and purchase your fertilizers and amendments. Double check your calculations for square footage and the amount of fertilizer you will need.

Pay close attention to the specific ratios of the recommended fertilizers and amendments. If the garden center does not have fertilizers with the recommended N-P-K proportions, ask for assistance or recommendations in meeting the laboratory analysis recommendations.

Select organic fertilizers and amendments to slowly change the soil nutritional level to promote optimal plant growth. Organic fertilizers are those that obtain their nutrients (N-P-K, calcium, magnesium, gypsum) from natural sources, such as bone meal, kelp, alfalfa meal and bat guano. Purchase only the amount you need based on your soil report recommendations.

When applying fertilizers and amendments, select a day that is free of wind and rain. Wear gloves and a mask. Follow the directions on the label. Mix the fertilizers and amendments, if needed, in a wheelbarrow.

Till the soil to a depth of 8 inches. Tilling methods vary depending on the size, shape and condition of the site. Small gardens can be hand tilled with a shovel or small mechanical tiller. Large gardens may require a large tiller or tractor. Fertilizers and amendments can be tilled into or broadcast onto the soil. Allow the soil to rest. Follow the label directions on when to plant seeds and seedlings.

Follow your soil test report recommendations, using organic fertilizers and amendments, to promote soil health and ultimately healthy plants. Give your vegetables a strong start with properly amended soil. Visit https://extension.psu.edu/soil-management-in-home-gardens-and-landscapes to learn more about soil amending.

If you have questions about soil testing and amending, call the Master Gardener Garden Hotline at 724-287-4761, Ext. 7, or e-mail the Master Gardeners at: butlermg@psu.edu.

Michael Pavelek II is a Butler County Master Gardener.