It is a Research & Education soil lab initiated partnering with Virginia Tech so to learn more about organic crop production and its benefit.
The soil lab is initiated using cover crops which are an excellent tool for home vegetable gardeners as well, regardless of garden size, and provide many benefits: soil erosion, soil compaction, soil organic matter, weed suppression, disease and pest management and low maintenance. Cover crops, gardeners can also improve the soil by adding compost or manure or other organic materials such as leaves, straw, or grass.
More important is to do soil testing as it is a quick and accurate method to determine the relative acidity of the soil (pH) and the level of several essential nutrients (phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, sulphur, manganese, copper, and zinc) needed. The results will aid in plant selection, soil preparation, and fertilization. They will help avoiding over fertilization, which can stimulate excessive plant growth and increase the likelihood of some diseases. It can also help reduce pollution of our water supplies. Excess nutrients applied, but not used by plants, may run off into surface waters during storms or leach into groundwater. By applying the correct grade and amount of fertilizer, you will avoid unnecessary pruning of excessive new growth and have healthier, more productive plants.