UGA Cooperative Extension

Liberty County Extension Office:
Testing Services

Soil Testing

Determining the fertility level of a soil through a soil test is the first step in planning a sound lime and fertilizer program.  Most Georgia soils are low in pH and/or one of the essential plant nutrients.  Therefore, to maintain normal plant growth, lime and
fertilizer must be applied in sufficient quantity to meet the crop requirement.  A SOIL TEST is the best means available to determine this requirement.

Instructions for Taking Soil Sample

1. With a spade, trowel, auger, or soil sampling tube, take a thin vertical slice or core of soil from at least 10-20 different places in the area to be tested. Combine, mix thoroughly together, and fill the soil sample bag to the FILL LINE. Fold top to FILL LINE and fasten metal flaps securely to avoid spillage during shipment.

2. For row crops sample to plow depth; for lawns and turf and pasture surface 4" depth; gardens surface 6' depth; orchards surface 8 to 12" depth and pecan groves surface 6 to 8" depth. For more detailed information on soil sampling guidelines, contact your county Extension office.

3. One sample should represent no more than 15 acres. If more than one soil type is present within sampling area, take a separate sample from each soil type. Avoid sampling high and low spots, areas along roads, old fence rows, fertilizer bands, etc. Sample problem areas separately.

4. Complete the items requested on the front of the bag and return sample to your county agent.

Soil Samples pricing:

1st sample - $10.50

2nd sample - $17.50

3rd sample - $24.50

4th sample - $31.50

5th sample - $ 38.50

Water Testing

Basic Water Test are priced at $16.50

GA-EPD Public Water System Review & Permitting Process are $100.00 plus shipping charges. A minimum of 1000 ml or 32 ounces of water is needed for testing.