Wayne County Extension Agent emphasizes importance of early soil preparation for next year’s growing season
By Jessica Strickland, Wayne County Horticulture Extension Agent
GOLDSBORO, N.C. — With the growing season winding down, Wayne County gardeners are being encouraged to take advantage of free soil testing services now available through the North Carolina Department of Agriculture to prepare for next year’s gardens.
Free Testing Window Closing Soon
Jessica Strickland, Wayne County Horticulture Extension Agent, advises gardeners to act quickly to avoid upcoming fees. The current free soil testing period will end after the Thanksgiving holiday, when a $4 per sample fee takes effect and continues through March.
“Now is the time to start planning for next year’s garden,” Strickland said. “The first step in those plans should include getting a soil test so you have your soil prepared and amended by spring.”
Understanding Your Soil’s Needs
The comprehensive soil analysis provides crucial information about pH levels and nutrient content, along with specific recommendations for fertilizer and lime applications needed to achieve optimal growing conditions. Results are typically available within three to six weeks via email.
Soil testing boxes and forms are available at the NC Cooperative Extension – Wayne County Center, located at 3114B Wayne Memorial Drive in Goldsboro.
Proper Sample Collection Techniques
Extension experts recommend collecting multiple samples based on different planting areas and soil conditions. Gardeners should consider separate samples for:
- Vegetable gardens
- Lawn areas (front and back yards separately)
- Flower beds
- Areas with varying soil types or drainage
- Acid-loving plants such as centipede grass, blueberries, and azaleas
For accurate results, collectors should gather six to ten “mini-samples” randomly within each designated area, then mix them thoroughly in a bucket before placing the combined sample in the testing container.
Expert Support Available
Wayne County Extension staff are available to help gardeners interpret their soil test results and determine appropriate soil amendments. The detailed reports can include complex information about pH levels, phosphorus, potassium, and specific fertilizer recommendations.
“Healthy soil is the foundation of a successful garden, and having your soil tested is a small investment of time that yields significant results,” Strickland noted. “It removes the guesswork from fertilizing and amending your soil.”
Additional Resources
Gardeners interested in staying informed about local growing conditions can:
- Subscribe to the Wayne County Extension Gardening email list at https://wayne.ces.ncsu.edu/email-me
- Follow @waynecooperativeextension on Facebook and @waynecountyextensionnc on Instagram
- Access the North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox at https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu for landscape planning ideas
By testing soil now, gardeners will have adequate time during the winter months to make necessary amendments, setting the stage for healthier plants and more productive gardens in the upcoming growing season.
