Frequently Asked Questions...
Q. What is the turnaround time for soil testing?
A. Turnaround time is dependent on volume of mail received. In general, soil test results will be sent out 7 - 10 business days after receipt. The exception to this is during the spring rush (mid-March through June) when turnaround could be 3-4 weeks.
Q. When is the best time to test my soil?
A. The end of the growing season is the ideal time to test soil. This gives the grower time to plan for the spring and avoids the spring rush. Soil characteristics will not change significantly over the cold winter months.
Q. Can I drop off a sample at the lab?
A. Yes, the lab is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Q. Who do I make my check out to?
A. University of Massachusetts
Q. On the order form, there is a line for “Sample Name.” What is that?
A. The Sample Name is merely whatever you want to call your sample. If you are sending more than one sample, it enables you to tell one sample from another.
Q. I am concerned about contaminants in my soil. Can you help me?
A. A lead screening test used to estimate total soil lead levels is included in the Routine Soil Analysis ($10 per sample). The UMass Soil Testing Lab is a nutrient lab and does not test soil for other contaminants such as hydrocarbons, PCBs, pesticides, Arsenic or Mercury.
Q. Can I pay for my soil test by Credit Card?
A. We’re sorry but we cannot accept credit cards at this time. We accept checks or cash (when hand-delivering) only.
