Looking to boost your dollars per acre at harvest time?
It all starts in the soil.
Your plants are only as healthy as the soil they're feeding from.
Reduced microbial activity and limited nutrient availability can result in lackluster harvests. we’ll give you a complete report of our findings and recommend corrective measures.
Ward Laboratories can help you increase your soil's productivity, microbial health and nutrient balance.
Curious about your soil's health?
Here's some of our best-selling, comprehensive soil tests.
Routine Soil Analysis
We recommend this test to everyone from commercial crop producers to home gardeners … anyone who needs to know what’s in their soil—it’s the test that covers (almost) everything!
- Measures pH, buffer pH, sum of cations (CEC), base saturation (%), soluble salts, organic matter, nitrate-nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, sulfur, zinc, iron, manganese and copper.
PLFA
Another popular option, this test looks for phospholipid fatty acids, or PLFA, in your soil.
- Gain critical info about your soil’s microbial populations
- Knowing how these changes occur over time gives our producers the ability to compare various management techniques for optimal health
Soil Health Assessment (SHA)
This test combines the latest in soil science, ensuring that both soil fertility and soil health are viewed through a single test. Widely accepted by Land Grant University correlations and calibrations.
- Evaluate both microbial activity and food
- Includes modified aggregate stability
- 2 biological, 1 chemical, and 1 physical indicator of soil health
Nematode Testing Soil
This test looks for common harmful and pathogenic nematodes in soil, such as lesion and spiral nematodes, along with fungal feeding, and free-living nematodes. You can also request testing for Soybean Cyst Nematodes (SCN) in addition to your soil nematode test.
Soil DNA
This test utilizes whole genome sequencing, helping farmers and agronomists accurately identify biological threats and opportunities without compromising productivity.
- Industry-leading DNA sequencing
- Cutting-edge data analysis engine
- Pathogen analysis
- Nutrient cycling indicators
Looking for something else?
View our entire selection of soil tests for all your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Soil & Soil Health Analysis
How much does testing cost?
See our Pricing page.
Does Ward accept samples from any location?
Yes, we accept samples from producers all over the world! Any samples that are submitted from outside the U.S. will need an APHIS label. You can find out more here.
Can you test the soil in my lawn or garden?
Yes! We suggest one of two tests. For homeowners using conventional management practices (for example, synthetic fertilizers), we recommend our Routine Soil Analysis. For producers using natural approaches (for example, manure), a Soil Health test may be beneficial.