Soil Organic Matter CruciblesSoil Analysis

Professional soil analysis for accurate recommendations

Rock River Laboratory performs soil analysis for a multitude of plant types and purposes, including field crops, commercial vegetable and fruit crops, nutrient management planning, wildlife food plots, lawns, and backyard vegetable or flower gardens.

To ensure accurate and precise soil analysis, we participate in the Agricultural Laboratory Proficiency (ALP) program, the North American Proficiency Testing Program (NAPT), and is certified by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP). Learn more about our proficiency program participation and certifications here. In-house quality assurance/quality control data is also available for review online.  

Submitting a soil sample

  • Send samples in tightly sealed bags to ensure a safe shipment. Sample bags are available through Rock River Laboratory at no cost
  • Include the proper sample submission forms (available below) or establish an account to use our quick and simple Soil Info App
  • When sending a soil nitrate sample, first freeze the sample, or submit it to the lab within 24 hours of collection

Soil analysis forms for download

Soil Info App for established accounts (details)

Existing customers: login at rockriverlab.com and click ‘Soil Information Sheets’. 

New customers: call or e-mail Rock River Laboratory for set-up and tutorial.


Nitrogen and nitrate testing resources

Nitrogen Testing Program Schedule

Pre-plant Nitrogen Testing (PPNT) tech sheet

Pre-sidedress Nitrogen Testing (PSNT) tech sheet


Collecting a soil sample for nutrient analysis

The accuracy of soil analysis begins with and depends on proper soil sample collection. Below are the recommended guidelines for collecting an optimal soil sample.

Collecting a soil sample from commercial vegetable or fruit fields

Collecting a soil sample for a lawn, garden, or wildlife food plot