How to Read Soil Reports
& Amend Your Soil

If you have received you DIY DIRT test results you now might be wondering how to amend your garden. Here you will find some basic recommendations for for amending your soil to meet the guidelines provided in the test results.

Soil Basics

Soil Chemistry Basics

Here is some basic information about soil chemistry

Macro Nutrients

Nitrogen

Nitrogen is one of the major nutrients required for plant growth. It is the building block of proteins, amino acids and chlorophyl. Nitrogen is commonly low in most settings.

Phosphorus

Phosphorous is vital to the creation of DNA, fruiting, seed creation and most importantly all energy transfers within the plant. It is said to produce strong roots and big fruits.

Potassium

Potassium, also known as potash is known for it's role it plays in regulating turgor pressure and the opening and closing of the stomata. It is said to help aid in droughts and cold/hot conditions.

Secondary Nutrients

Calcium

Calcium's main role is in forming cell walls. It also plays a role in cell elongation and division in the roots and meristem. It also helps transport nutrients in the plant.

Magnesium

Magnesium plays a major role in the production of the chlorophyl molecule and well as an enzyme activator closely associated with phosphorous supply.

Sulfur

Sulfur is a structural component of amino acids, it supports photosynthesis electron transport, as well as the conversion of nitrate into amino acids and then into proteins.

Micro Nutrients

Zinc
Zinc helps in the regulation of photosynthesis, respiration, and nitrogen fixation. It plays a role in the formation of chlorophyll and helps uptake phosphorus. Zinc is important for development of shoots, roots, and leaves.

Copper

Copper is a micronutrient that is essential for plant growth. Copper helps with the formation of proteins and cell walls, and assists in the uptake of other nutrients.

Manganese

Manganese helps plants absorb and use other nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus. It also helps in photosynthesis.

Boron

Boron helps with cell division and cell wall formation, which are essential for a plant’s growth and development. Boron also helps plants absorb and use other essential nutrients, like nitrogen and phosphorus.

Iron

Iron is essential for photosynthesis, respiration, and nitrogen metabolism, as well as providing the green pigment in plants. Iron also helps to strengthen plants against disease and drought.

Sodium

Sodium is an essential nutrient plant metabolism. It is involved in the maintenance of osmotic balance, cell wall structure, and photosynthesis. It helps to regulate the absorption of other essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and is also important for the development and maintenance of root systems.