Updated 1/12/2024
Just a quick note from our friends at the University of Minnesota Soil Testing Laboratory: There are new submissions forms and prices beginning January 1, 2024. The updated forms for home gardeners may be found at: z.umn.edu/lawn-garden
Tests Offered (with prices)
Regular Series (phosphorus, potassium, pH (with lime requirement if needed) , organic matter (%) and estimated texture) - $20/sample
Lead - $21/sample
Soluble Salts (from excess fertilizer or road salt) - $8.50/sample
They can also test for Micronutrient Series (Zinc, Copper, Iron, Manganese), Calcium and Magnesium, Nitrate, Sulfur, and Boron for additional fees.
How to Submit Samples for Analysis
Download, print and fill out the Lawn & Garden Soil Analysis Request Sheet. Use one sheet per sample. For faster turnaround, include your email address and we will email you the results.
Follow the instructions for collecting samples on the second/back page of the PDF and watch the How to Take a Soil Sample video.
The sample size should be about 2-3 cups.
Place the sample in a secure container such as a clean plastic tub or sealable plastic bag. Label the container with a sample name or number that matches what you put on the request sheet.
Enclose a check payable to the University of Minnesota for all services requested. Do NOT send cash - we cannot be responsible for cash sent through the mail. You may also pay with a credit card. Scroll down for prices.
Send the sample(s), payment, and request sheet(s) to:
Soil Testing Laboratory, University of Minnesota
135 Crops Research Building
1902 Dudley Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55108
Note: You may also drop off samples in person.
For more options, visit the Soil Testing Lab website, You can call or email them at soiltest@umn.edu if you would like sample bags, paper copies of the forms, brochures, and how many of each.