Soil Analysis
Professional soil analysis for accurate recommendations
Rock River Laboratory performs soil analysis for a multitude of plant types and purposes, including field crops, commercial vegetable and fruit crops, nutrient management planning, wildlife food plots, lawns, and backyard vegetable or flower gardens.
In an effort to ensure accurate and precise soil analysis, Rock River Laboratory participates in the Agricultural Laboratory Proficiency (ALP) program, the North American Proficiency Testing Program (NAPT), and is certified by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP). Learn more about our proficiency program participation and certifications here. In-house quality assurance/quality control data is also available for review online.
Nitrogen and nitrate testing resources
Nitrogen Testing Program Schedule
Pre-plant Nitrogen Testing (PPNT) tech sheet
Pre-sidedress Nitrogen Testing (PSNT) tech sheet
How to collect a soil sample for nutrient analysis
The accuracy of soil analysis begins with and depends on proper soil sample collection. Below are the recommended guidelines for collecting an optimal soil sample.
Collecting a soil sample from commercial vegetable or fruit fields
Collecting a soil sample for a lawn, garden, or wildlife food plot
Tips for submitting a soil sample to Rock River Laboratory
- Send samples in tightly sealed bags to ensure a safe shipment. Sample bags are available through Rock River Laboratory at no cost
- Include the proper sample submission forms (available below) or establish an account to use online Soil Information Sheets (SIS)
- When sending a soil nitrate sample, first freeze the sample, or submit it to the lab within 24 hours of collection