Late summer is the perfect time to take soil samples for testing, for two reasons. First, the time between mailing your samples and receiving the test results is reduced dramatically. Samples sent now are normally processed in less than two weeks.
Second, when soil samples are taken in late summer, the results are available to allow landowners  and growers to apply whatever lime and nutrients are needed.  Fall applications of lime are extremely beneficial.
“We really should think of soil testing like going for your annual check-up at the doctor,” said Ethan Henderson, agricultural agent for Polk County. “Soil test results help inform property owners what lime and nutrients are needed. If you  have done a good job in the past, the results may recommend reducing the lime and fertilizer needed, thus saving money,” added Henderson.
Soil testing in North Carolina is offered at no cost to the participants. Participants must package the soil samples for mailing and pay the postage. Soil boxes and forms are available from the Polk County Extension Center in Columbus.
– article submitted
by John Vining