Home gardeners can request a free soil test kit from a number of resources across the Ohio Valley; testing is usually available for a nominal fee. See the list of testing resources below.  

Depending on the results of your soil test, you may need one or more of the following soil additives, which are widely available at nursery and garden centers. These products bear an “NPK” label, which indicates the ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).

• Rock phosphate, as its name suggests, is a mined sedimentary rock that contains high amounts of phosphorus as well as calcium. Once used by farmers directly in the field, this slow-releasing fertilizer is now a popular component of modern fertilizer that provides a consistent source of essential macronutrients.

• Greensand is a natural mineral harvested from undersea deposits on the ocean floor. It is a known source of potassium and other micronutrients that contribute to healthy fruit and plant development.

• Liquid seaweed, derived from marine plant material that has been allowed to decompose or ferment in water, is frequently used as an all-purpose fertilizer known to initiate cell growth and invigorate plant roots and stems.

• Lime fertilizer isn’t typically needed in the Ohio Valley, but in other parts of the country its high concentrations of calcium and magnesium work to lower acidity and balance soil pH. 

• Fish emulsion is made from fish parts, making it an excellent alternative to toxic chemical fertilizer. It is most often used as foliar feed to give soil a quick nitrogen boost.

• Blood meal is another significant source of nitrogen that is derived from dried/powdered animal blood. This water-soluble fertilizer can be applied directly to soil or via watering hose attachment.

• Animal manure contains high levels of ammonia in its fresh form that can be harmful to plants. For fertilization, it is allowed to age for 6 to 12 months before applying to soil.

Resources for Ohio Valley Home Soil Test Kits

Hamilton County Soil & Water Conservation District
Clermont County Extension
Warren County Soil & Water Conservation District
Kenton County Extension
Boone County Extension
Dearborn County (search ‘soil test’)