Test Your Garden Soil!
Conservation Tillage Program offers soil testing for qualifying Kitsap Gardeners

(Bremerton) - While gardeners spend long winter nights pouring over seed catalogues, spring planting is just around the corner. In preparation for the 2012 garden season, gardeners need to conduct soil test to ensure their soil has proper nutrients for optimal plant growth and production. Kitsap County, using ARRA funding from the US Department of Energy, will offer soil testing for qualifying community and food producing gardens through the Kitsap County Conservation Tillage Program at WSU Kitsap Extension.

“Commissioner Garrido is committed to strengthening all aspects of the local food chain. Community and food-producing gardens are an important way for local communities to reduce their energy foot-print.” says Diane Fish, Small Farms Educator with WSU Kitsap Extension. “Our goal is to help gardeners manage their soil fertility, reduce the use of fossil-based, commercial fertilizers for vegetable crops and protect the environment.”

“Soil testing provides gardeners with information about soil
nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), and potassium (K). Soil testing results allow gardeners to assess nutrient levels in the soil, target fertilizer applications, and provide a proper balance of plant nutrients.” according to Fish.

The Conservation Tillage Program seeks to assist local gardeners and farmer adopt sustainable and energy-saving practices through a no-till seed drill community rental program, soil testing and educational opportunities. Administered by the WSU Kitsap Extension Small Farms Program, the soil testing is supported by Grant No. DE-EE0000853 awarded by the US Department of Energy. Points of view in this document are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the US Department of Energy. For information please contact Diane Fish of the WSU Kitsap Extension Small Farms Team at 360.337.7026 or dfish@wsu.edu.

About the WSU Kitsap Extension Small Farms Team:

The Small Farms Team provides educational programs and research-based information for farmers, consumers, decision-makers, and others involved in local food systems. Learn more at: http://kitsap.wsu.edu/ag/. WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local WSU Extension office.