DATE:    4/24/06
CONTACT:  Dr. Kathy Moore, (864) 656-2300
WRITER:   Diane Palmer, (864) 656-4741

Clemson University offers more convenient soil test

CLEMSON ­ “For healthy plants, flowers, lawns, trees and vegetables, it is a good idea for the homeowner to have their soil tested before planting,” said Kathy Moore, director of the Clemson University Agricultural Service Laboratory. “The test will help the homeowner maintain their soil fertility and pH level, and protect them from the expense and hazards of applying excessive fertilizer.”

As a convenience to homeowners, a new soil sample mailer has been developed which includes a soil sample bag, instructions on how to take a soil sample, and a postage-paid mailing envelope. The mailer is now available online at Clemson University ’s Publishing Department’s website at: http://www.clemson.edu/psapublishing. Click on the soil sample mailer on the main page and follow instructions. Cost is $15.

Moore said that homeowners may still take the soil sample to their local Clemson Extension office or bring the sample to the Clemson University Agricultural Service Laboratory for a cost of $6.

"The mailer will provide a convenience to our customers since they will be able to mail their soil sample directly from their home mail box or local post office,” said Moore .

After ordering, homeowners will receive the soil sample mailer in the mail. The homeowner can then follow instructions in the package and mail their soil sample in the postage-paid envelope to the Clemson University Agricultural Service Laboratory for testing.  The results will be mailed back informing the homeowner of what the soil needs to grow healthy flowers, vegetables, shrubs or lawn.

The test results will show the current level of plant nutrients in the soil; if fertilizer is
needed, what kind and how much to add; and if lime is needed and how much to add.

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