The first step in determining the nutrient requirements for your soil is to collect a sample of the soil and have it analyzed. Make sure you specify the type of grass or legume you are trying to grow before sending the sample to the lab. The test will indicate how much fertilizer and/or lime is required to improve the fertility of your soil. Contact your local Cooperative Extension office, Natural Resource Conservation Services (NRCS) office, or Soil and Water Conservation office to find out where to send the sample.