[How to FIX YOUR SOIL] - Step by Step How to USE a SOIL TEST

Summary

In this video, the creator demonstrates how to perform a fall soil test using the My Soil Test Kit. They guide viewers through the process of collecting soil samples from different areas of a lawn, mixing them, and preparing the sample for mailing to the testing facility. The video highlights the benefits of soil testing for lawn care, emphasizing that it helps optimize fertilizer use and improve soil health. The creator also encourages regular testing to track changes in the lawn over time and shares their own experience with the kit.

Takeaways

• 🍂 The video is set in the fall season, emphasizing the importance of conducting a soil test during this time.
• 🌿 The presenter discusses the significance of good soil for lawn care and introduces the My Soil Test Kit as a key tool for this purpose.
• 📦 The My Soil Test Kit includes a registration card, a return envelope, a measuring cup, and a synthetic root (ion exchange resin) for collecting soil samples.
• 🔍 The synthetic root simulates the absorption of nutrients by turf grass, providing a more natural representation of soil conditions compared to other testing methods.
• 📈 The presenter highlights the importance of consistency in soil testing, suggesting that tracking changes over time is more valuable than comparing different tests.
• 🌱 The video demonstrates the process of collecting soil samples from various parts of the lawn to ensure a representative sample for testing.
• 🧪 The soil sample is mixed with de-ionized water and the ion exchange resin before being sent to My Soil for analysis.
• 📊 The presenter shares a previous soil test result, indicating high iron levels and a deficiency in micronutrients, and discusses the organic approach taken to improve soil quality.
• 🌳 The video provides practical tips on how to collect soil samples, including using a clean bucket and a soil sample tool for accurate results.
• 💰 The presenter advocates for the cost-effectiveness of regular soil testing, suggesting it can save money by avoiding ineffective fertilizers and products.

Q & A

What is the purpose of conducting a fall soil test?

The purpose of conducting a fall soil test is to assess the soil's nutrient content and condition, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy lawn and optimizing its growth and health.

What does the My Soil Test Kit include?

The My Soil Test Kit includes a registration card, a return envelope, a measuring cup, a synthetic root or ion exchange resin, and instructions for collecting and sending in soil samples.

How does the synthetic root or ion exchange resin work in the soil test?

The synthetic root, or ion exchange resin, acts as a proxy for the actual roots of plants, absorbing nutrients from the soil sample during the transit time to the testing lab, thus simulating the nutrient uptake by turf grass.

Why is it important to register the soil kit with My Soil Testing?

Registering the soil kit allows the user to associate the test results with their specific lawn or garden, making it easier to track changes over time and to receive personalized recommendations based on the test results.

What was the speaker's approach to improving soil health after the June soil test?

After the June soil test, the speaker opted for an organic approach, applying carbon and other organic materials to naturally extract nutrients from the soil and improve its health.

How many soil samples did the speaker collect for the fall soil test?

The speaker collected soil samples from seven different locations in the lawn: four in the back, one at the swale, and two in the front.

What tool does the speaker recommend for collecting soil samples?

The speaker recommends using a soil sample tool made by My Soil, which involves sticking it in the ground, twisting, and pulling out a sample.

Why is it important to mix the collected soil samples before sending them in for testing?

Mixing the collected soil samples ensures that the sample sent for testing is representative of the entire lawn, providing a more accurate assessment of the overall soil condition.

How often does the speaker recommend conducting soil tests for lawn care?

The speaker recommends conducting soil tests twice a year, once in June and once in the fall, to monitor the changes in the lawn's soil health and make informed decisions about lawn care.

What is the approximate cost of the My Soil Test Kit mentioned in the script?

The speaker estimates the cost of the My Soil Test Kit to be around $30, which is a reasonable investment for maintaining a healthy lawn.