Gardening

A pH test measures the acidity or alkalinity of your soil. Most Jefferson County soils range from 6.5–7.4, and most plants grow best between 6.5–7.0.

• Cost: Free for up to 3 samples; $2 per additional sample
• How to test: Drop off your samples at our reception desk Monday - Friday 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM - we’ll call you with your results.
• If your pH levels are within normal range and you’re not having issues, no further testing is usually needed.

Recommended if your pH is outside the normal range or if you’re having garden, turf, or crop problems. Results include specific recommendations based on your soil type and crop needs.

• Cost: $15.00 - $18.00 for the sample cost plus $10.00 for shipping.
• Type: Home & Garden, Turf, Commercial Fruit & Vegetables, Agronomic Samples
• You will receive a soil analysis report via mail or email in about 2 weeks. Specific recommendations will be listed on the report based on your soil and the crop you are growing.

Using a hand spade and a small container, take 5 to 6 random samples from the planting area. Dig down to a depth of about 8 inches. Mix all of the samples together and bring in two cups of the mixture. If the sample is wet, it should be left out to dry overnight. Place the sample in a zip-lock bag, or a glass or plastic container. Do not use metal containers. For agronomic sampling, contact our office.

Most of our native bee species are solitary and do not live in hives. Instead they nest in dead wood and in the soil. Create structural refuge with things like brush piles, wood piles, and areas of exposed, undisturbed soil. That doesn’t fit in with your landscape aesthetic, you say? Then follow step two!

If a brush pile sounds messy, instead create a decorative wattle fence of bent twigs. Wood pile out of place in your landscape? Add a rustic arbor or bench made of natural, untreated wood. Even a split rail fence can harbor these solitary bees. The key is to create structures that persist through the season and to vary the types of structure so many different species are attracted to the garden.

Many flowers provide nectar. But not all of our tiny solitary pollinators can handle the big flowers. Vary the sizes and types of flowers you plant. Plants in the mint family (both native and introduced) and plants in the “carrot” family, like dill and golden alexanders, have many small flowers that produce lots of nectar. They are attractive to look at and great for solitary bees and other beneficial insects. (See the websites in the sidebar for more plant ideas.) When you purchase plants that flower, be sure to ask if those plants have been pre-treated with a pesticide.

We understand that pesticides can sometimes be necessary in a managed landscape. However, many—including insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides—can be harmful to bees and other pollinators. Always use pesticides carefully and avoid spraying flowering plants, since pollinators are drawn to blooms. If treatment is required, use low-residual products and apply them when bees are least active, such as early morning or late evening.

Choose the least toxic option and time applications based on the pest’s lifecycle to reduce unnecessary exposure. Be especially cautious with systemic or long-lasting products, as they can remain active in plants for extended periods. When possible, remove blooms during treatment to prevent pollinators from being exposed to contaminated nectar or pollen.