ROOM TO GROW: Fall means time to check your soil
The cooler temperatures and shorter days have triggered the start of winter slumber for many of our landscape plants. A few tasks linger, such as planting, transplanting and in a couple of months, pruning. This break allows us time to assess last year's problems and plan for success in the coming growing season.
One of the important, fundamental tasks that is part of the planning process is soil testing. It has been quite a while since I've written about soil testing, but, I think it is time again since this is such an important tool.
Routine soil testing is one of the easiest, cheapest things that you can do in your lawn, landscape and garden maintenance regimen. Since testing is only recommended every few years, I don't understand why more homeowners don't take advantage of this tool.
While soil testing can be done throughout the year, autumn is the recommended time. This will allow the amendments, particularly lime, to work down into the soil profile before spring rolls around again.
The pH level is one of the most important things determined by a soil test. Typically, a pH level around 7 is considered neutral. Lower pH levels are more acidic, while higher pH levels are more alkaline.
This is important to know because different plants require different pH levels in order for their roots to absorb nutrients. You can add a truckload of fertilizer, but, if your pH level is not in the correct range, it will be useless to the plants.
Plants such as azaleas, blueberries and centipede grass tend to grow better in more acidic soils, around 5.5. Bermuda grass, vegetables and most flowers tend to grow best at a pH closer to neutral.
In Georgia, our soils tend to be more acidic. The addition of limestone raises the pH level to an appropriate range prior to planting. Lime takes several months to become soluble and move down into the soil profile. Dolomitic lime, which contains both calcium and magnesium, is recommended for homeowners. Although it is slow to change the pH level of the soil, it will maintain the pH level longer.
A soil test also will provide information regarding the nutrient levels in your soil. It will report the available nutrients as well as give you specific directions regarding fertilizer type (10-10-10, 16-4-8, etc), amount of fertilizer to use, and timing of applications.
When collecting a sample, gather soil from eight to 10 random areas around your yard. Dig down 4-8 inches, where roots grow. Mix a scoop full from the different areas together in a plastic bucket. From this mixture, take one cup of soil to your local extension office.
Fees vary per county, but typically fall between $6-$8. For more information about soil testing procedures, contact your local extension office.
UPCOMING EVENTS
2016 Master Gardener Extension Volunteer program: Classes will be held each Thursday from Feb. 4-April 21. Prior plant experience is not necessary; a heart for community service is! Bibb County residents should contact Kathy at 478-751-6338 or kensley@uga.edu to receive application materials. Houston County residents should contact Teddie at 478-987-2028 or mg@uga.edu. Class fee is $195. Applications are due Dec. 1.
Contact Karol Kelly at karolk@uga.edu.