Whether you are preparing a new garden bed or planting in the same place year after year, you need to know whether your soil contains the proper mix of nutrients for successful gardening. For most crops, the soil pH should be within the range of 6.2 to 6.8 to allow nutrients to be available to the plant's roots. A soil test can be obtained through your local Cooperative Extension office. When you receive the results, you will have information not only on what your soil contains, but also on what you need to add to ensure a successful crop.
