This year I wanted to explore different labs than Logan Lab. Mainly I wanted more transparency in the report (what test methods are used) and a clear view on how to address any soil issue.
Approach:
- I sampled my soil as the same method I've used in the past. Multiple samples (+20) across the yard.
- I placed them in a bag an mixed it all up. The bag was sealed and stayed in my garage for a month (no time to send the samples)
- I mixed it again and divided into equal parts. I did my best to ensure it was mixed.
Test site:
I sent the sample to Logan Lab ($25), Waypoint TN ($16.50) and A&L Great Lakes (I chose the complete test $30 instead of $20). I wanted to include PSU too, but I did not collect enough soil. In hindsight I should have also done Soil Savvy.
They all call for credit card info and sent the results via pdf. Waypoint includes a service that they will keep track of your soil and trends for free. I have not tried it yet.
2017 applications:
5.67lb P205 /M
4.67lb K2O/M
Always returned my clippings
Results:
I took the previous data I had plus the reports and converted them to ppm, so I could compare them. Yes, there is something going on with my phosphorus. More importantly, each lab reported a different number. A&L used Bray-1 Equiv, Waypoint used M3 and Logan I don't know. Waypoint looks to report a higher sulfur and A&L a lower iron. Everything else with them looks about the same. I sent an email today to Waypoint for an explanation of why the use of the M3 test is acceptable given my 8.1pH.
Conclusion
The main thing to me, and I hope to most members is the recommendations. Both A&L and Waypoint recommendations look similar and on par with what I would normally do. I need continue to add more phosphorous and potassium. Waypoint seems easier to understand and it is half the price than A&L.
Therefore I will like to highlight that the lab used for the test is important. In general you want a test that provides clear results with a guide on what to apply for the year. Doing yearly reports with the same lab, using the same test methods and the same sampling method will provide you with a trend of your soil. This links will help you in find a local lab that knows your state typical soil/test methods. Ridgerunner links to soil test sites: http://www.naptprogram.org/about/participants/all/ or search by State or Province: http://www.naptprogram.org/about/participants
8am Edit: It was late last night and I forgot to mention one last item. While I have a high pH, low P and low K, I still have a thriving lawn with no major issues. Last year I had some dollar spot but no other fungus. You could see images of my lawn in 2018 Cool Season Lawn Pictures. Addressing soil issues is important, but patience and following the general practices from the site will yield a decent lawn.
Reports:
Approach:
- I sampled my soil as the same method I've used in the past. Multiple samples (+20) across the yard.
- I placed them in a bag an mixed it all up. The bag was sealed and stayed in my garage for a month (no time to send the samples)
- I mixed it again and divided into equal parts. I did my best to ensure it was mixed.
Test site:
I sent the sample to Logan Lab ($25), Waypoint TN ($16.50) and A&L Great Lakes (I chose the complete test $30 instead of $20). I wanted to include PSU too, but I did not collect enough soil. In hindsight I should have also done Soil Savvy.
They all call for credit card info and sent the results via pdf. Waypoint includes a service that they will keep track of your soil and trends for free. I have not tried it yet.
2017 applications:
5.67lb P205 /M
4.67lb K2O/M
Always returned my clippings
Results:
I took the previous data I had plus the reports and converted them to ppm, so I could compare them. Yes, there is something going on with my phosphorus. More importantly, each lab reported a different number. A&L used Bray-1 Equiv, Waypoint used M3 and Logan I don't know. Waypoint looks to report a higher sulfur and A&L a lower iron. Everything else with them looks about the same. I sent an email today to Waypoint for an explanation of why the use of the M3 test is acceptable given my 8.1pH.
Conclusion
The main thing to me, and I hope to most members is the recommendations. Both A&L and Waypoint recommendations look similar and on par with what I would normally do. I need continue to add more phosphorous and potassium. Waypoint seems easier to understand and it is half the price than A&L.
Therefore I will like to highlight that the lab used for the test is important. In general you want a test that provides clear results with a guide on what to apply for the year. Doing yearly reports with the same lab, using the same test methods and the same sampling method will provide you with a trend of your soil. This links will help you in find a local lab that knows your state typical soil/test methods. Ridgerunner links to soil test sites: http://www.naptprogram.org/about/participants/all/ or search by State or Province: http://www.naptprogram.org/about/participants
8am Edit: It was late last night and I forgot to mention one last item. While I have a high pH, low P and low K, I still have a thriving lawn with no major issues. Last year I had some dollar spot but no other fungus. You could see images of my lawn in 2018 Cool Season Lawn Pictures. Addressing soil issues is important, but patience and following the general practices from the site will yield a decent lawn.
Reports:
