Grow Like A Pro Lawn Care Guide: Test The Lawn For pH and Nutrient Value
Step 1: Test the Soil for pH and Nutrient Value
Your existing soil needs to have the proper pH value and nutrients to support a healthy lawn. A soil test from Southern States is the most accurate, scientific way to discover exactly what your lawn needs. By adding only the required amendments (soil additives), you'll save time and money.
How to Test: Simply pull approximately 10 plugs of dirt about 3-6 inches deep from different areas of your lawn. Remove any debris such as rocks, grass, and roots. Combine collected soil in a clean, pint-sized paper bag and take it to your local Southern States Lawn Care Expert. The sample will be sent for professional lab analysis and takes about 7-10 days (it may take longer during peak planting months, so test early). The test will provide detailed information about your lawn's pH and nutrient needs.
Why to Test: A pH level of 6.0-6.5 is important for the grass plant to get the most out of the lawn's nutrients. Anything less indicates acidity and lime should be applied to neutralize the lawn's acidity. Numbers greater than 6.5 indicate alkalinity and sulfur should be used to make the lawn more acidic.
Your lawn's soil may also be lacking in certain nutrients. The soil test will determine exactly which lawn fertilizer your hungry lawn is craving. Based on the soil test results, your Southern States Lawn Care Expert can help you choose the right lawn fertilizer blend for you. Whether you're seeding a lawn or simply doing annual lawn repair, come on in to your local Southern States store and we'll be glad to provide some free lawn care tips to help you have the greenest grass in the neighborhood.
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