In order to decide how to improve the soil in raised beds, where can one get soil composition tested in Toronto/GTA in order to discover what is missing for optimum plant growth? Beds contain shrubs, decorative trees/ flowers/bulbs (not vegetables)
Thank you.
Thank-you for contacting Toronto Master Gardeners with your question. It is great that you are going to take the time to analyze your soil and then amend it accordingly. This is a fundamental step in establishing a healthy, productive garden, and unfortunately a step which is often overlooked.
From a previous posting on Toronto Master Gardeners, the following may be of help:
- Simple soil testing kits to test the soil for pH, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium can be purchased at any garden centre.
- The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) has a list of accredited soil testing sources www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/resource/soillabs.htm
- In addition the City of Toronto Public Health Department has published an excellent Guide for Soil Testing in Urban Gardens. https://www.torontomastergardeners.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Guide-for-Soil-Testing-in-Urban-Gardens.pdf
You might also be interested in the TMG Guide on Soil Fertility.
All the best in assessing and improving your soil!
19/05/22