We reached 60" of rain last year, and per my soil test from Logan Labs, the LAST thing I needed here was lime. While I did need the calcium, it was NOT in this form. My magnesium levels were too high in 2 of the gardens, so I used aragonite. The 3rd garden needed magnesium, so I used dolomitic lime, not ag lime.
For decades since 1992, because I was told our soil was acidic, so I used ag lime. This made my soil very unbalanced, as I never did a soil test until 2010. I'd strongly recommend a good soil test before adding macro nutrients.
This year I plan to get my soil tested for the first time (my gardening style so far has been "wing it.") My local cooperative extension office says it tests pH and soluble salts, but not nutrients. I'd have to send it away (and pay more) to get more info.
So is that info enough for me to get started? Or should I get the nutrients tested too?
I live in South FL, so it's logical to assume nutrients are poor. But pH is anyone's guess since it's developed land.
Yes, a good test will cost you $. I use Logan Labs and the comprehensive test is either $30 or $35, I forget. If you use Logan Labs, then you can use the worksheets to create your amendment mix I've provided in these posts:
https://steemit.com/gardening/@goldenoakfarm/reading-a-soil-test-part-1
https://steemit.com/gardening/@goldenoakfarm/how-to-read-a-soil-test-part-ii
https://steemit.com/gardening/@goldenoakfarm/how-to-read-a-soil-test-part-iii-building-the-amendment-mix
Thanks!
I'll have to go with the cheaper option this year, but I appreciate the info and hope to do something more comprehensive next year (my growing season is just beginning now that it's cooling off a bit.)
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