Take Soil Samples In The Fall

Fall is the best time to take soil samples.

Why? Because the weather is nice, and you usually aren't burdened with excessive rains and wet soil. You also have plenty of time to apply lime and get the garden in good shape before next spring's planting. Soil testing laboratories aren't rushed in the fall either. They can get your results back in plenty of time to make plans for next season.

Lime should be applied whenever it's needed to neutralize an extremely acid soil. But most lime applications require several weeks to several months to totally react with the soils acidity. Soil testing in the fall gives you plenty of time to apply the recommended lime, mix it with the soil and allow it to react before spring planting.