Soil Testing Services

Have you tried fertilizers but still aren't getting the lawn you have been dreaming of? Take the guesswork out of lawn care and vegetable gardening with Rocky's soil testing services.

Rocky's has partnered with the University of Connecticut's College of Agriculture and Natural Resources to offer soil testing services to our customers.

You can stop in at your local Rocky's store to receive a detailed brochure with easy to follow instructions on how you can get your soil tested at UConn's Department of Plant Science lab.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I have my soil tested?

Soil testing takes the guesswork out of deciding the kinds and amounts of fertilizers you should purchase and apply. Each soil test report contains recommended amounts of limestone and/or fertilizer needed for optimum plant growth. Knowing how much to apply saves time and money.

Applying the proper amounts of limestone and fertilizer promotes healthy, productive plants. In addition, it minimizes the potential for water pollution from over-application of nutrients, especially nitrogen and phosphorus.

What can soil tests determine?

The standard nutrient analysis will provide the soil sample's pH and the available amounts of phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Site-specific fertilizer recommendations are provided based on the soil test results. Recommendations for modifying the soil pH with limestone or sulfur are made if necessary.

What can soil tests not determine?

The soil fertility test cannot detect the presence of contaminants such as pesticides or petroleum products. Our soil tests also cannot identify problems due to insects, diseases, poor or excessive drainage, environmental stresses such as drought or winter injury, or improper cultural techniques.

When is the best time of year to have my soil tested?

A soil sample can be collected between April and October. Fall is an optimal time for sampling because added amendments can begin to react with the soil over the winter. When submitting samples in the springtime, try to take them in early enough to give yourself time to prepare your beds before planting.

How much does this service cost?

Soil testing is an inexpensive but valuable tool for the home gardener. Please see brochure for pricing.