What’s the secret to raising healthy, carefree vegetables and flowers? Great soil. How can you tell if your soil has what plants need? A soil test. When you send a soil sample to a lab, you get a detailed analysis of soil nutrients and you find out about deficiencies. That’s valuable information. Now you can also assess your soil for even more critical qualities, using a system developed by a team of farmers and soil scientists in Oregon. The methods are quite simple and the only supplies you need are a few items commonly found around the house.

The system, called Willamette Valley Soil Quality Guide, was designed with farmers in mind. But it can be used by gardeners in most zones across the country, says Richard Dick, Ph.D., codeveloper of the system and a professor of soil science at Oregon State University. “The general principles of the test are applicable anywhere,” concurs James Walworth, Ph.D., a soil scientist with the University of Arizona’s Cooperative Extension in Tucson, “but the specifics will differ.”

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You should do all ten steps during the active growing weeks in spring, but you can test for soil structure and tilth, compaction and plant residue, year-round. Check various locations in the garden for the broadest picture possible. The more detail you have, the more accurate and reliable the results.

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2. COMPACTION

Plunge a wire flag vertically into the soil at different locations. Mark the depth at which the wire bends. The sooner it bends, the more compacted the soil. A foot or more of easily penetrable soil is ideal.

Why It’s Important
Compacted soil inhibits root growth and water availability, and keeps earthworms and other vital soil fauna from circulating freely.

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7. PLANT VIGOR

Start this test during the active growing season and look for healthy plant color and size that’s relatively uniform. Overall health and development must be judged for what’s considered normal for your region. One caveat: If you planted late or during a drought, or suffered a pest infestation, results of this test may be unreliable.

Why It’s Important
Plant vigor indicates soil with good structure and tilth, a well-regulated water supply, and a diverse population of organisms. It’s the best sign of effective soil management you’ll have above ground.

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10. WATER AVAILABILITY

Wait for a soaking rain; then record how long until plants start to show signs of thirst. Results will vary widely by region. The basic lesson is that if plants require more frequent watering than typical for your region, your soil is probably the culprit.

Why It’s Important
Porous soil can better resist evaporation and adequately supply plants between waterings. “It could make all the difference in the world if water were to go another inch deeper,” Allmaras says.

 

Related Articles That May Interest You:

• 4 Secrets To Give Your Organic Garden A Mighty Boost
• Get Serious About Organic Gardening – Raise Your Own Earthworms
• Learn A “Shady” Trick To Increase Garden Yields

 

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Article source: Rodale’s Organic Life
Image source: same as above

 

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