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Soil testing, for everyone

At Alluvial Soil Lab, we recognize the vital role that soil plays in fostering healthy produce, vibrant landscapes, balanced ecosystems, and in mitigating climate change. In all cases, soil has the power to effect positive change from the ground up. Our goal is to make soil testing easy and accessible for everyone.

Explore why we believe soil can change the world ⇢

Our most popular soil tests

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  • 1. Order Kit

    Order sampling kit with preferred test type.

  • 2. Take Sample

    Fill sample bag with three cups of soil.

  • 3. Mail Kit

    Use pre-paid USPS return label to send sample.

  • 4. Get Results

    Results will be emailed to you with recommendations.

  • 5. Amend Soil

    Apply amendments to your soil.

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Reviews

  • Zakary S.

    Verified Purchase ✓

    Great support and detailed report. Helped advise what options we had to plant trees! Plants are doing incredible!(read more)

  • Wilson H.

    Verified Purchase ✓

    I recently started a garden at a community plot, and wanted to know what was in my soil, so I could make more targeted amendments. Jake walked me through how to do so, and after sending my samples in... (read more)

  • Noah M.

    Verified Purchase ✓

    As a professional in the field I very much appreciate the timely and detailed report, along with skilled follow up communications. I will certainly use Alluvial Soil Lab's services again.

  • Peggy C.

    Verified Purchase ✓

    I recently moved to a property with a vineyard, and wanted to know what type of fertilizers to use and how much to apply. So I did a soil test. I was new to soil testing and with Jake's help and instructions, I was able to successfully collect… (read more)

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2024 Update:

Soil-Specific California Native Suitability Lists

Using our database of over 6,000 California native species, Alluvial Soil Lab now provides a species list with each soil report. Each list includes 25+ selected species that would excel in your soil's conditions. Suitability lists are available for:

1. California natives

2. Fruits/Vegetables

3. Wine grapes

Read article ⇢

Why care about soil?

"The care of the earth is our most ancient and most worthy and, after all, our most pleasing responsibility. To cherish what remains of it, and to foster its renewal, is our only legitimate hope."

- Wendell Berry, The Art of the Commonplace: The Agrarian Essays

Ecosystem and landscape health

Biodiversity Support

Healthy soil fosters a diverse community of microorganisms, fungi, and insects, enhancing nutrient cycling and supporting various species.

Water Filtration

Soil acts as a natural filter, absorbing and purifying rainwater, preventing contaminants from entering groundwater and nearby water bodies.

Habitat Preservation

Soil is a vital habitat for flora and fauna, and its health is crucial for preserving biodiversity and ecological balance.

Erosion Prevention

Maintaining healthy soil structure through practices like cover cropping helps prevent soil erosion, ensuring the stability of ecosystems.

Aesthetic Value

Well-maintained soil contributes to the aesthetic appeal of landscapes, supporting recreational and cultural activities.

Health of our gardens and farms

Plant Health

Proper soil management practices promote optimal plant health, reducing susceptibility to diseases and pests. Healthy soil structure enhances root development and nutrient uptake, contributing to robust plant growth.

Contamination/Toxicity

Soil care includes measures to prevent contamination, ensuring that crops grown in the soil are free from harmful substances. Regular soil testing helps monitor and address potential toxic elements, safeguarding the health of plants and the safety of agricultural products.

Nutrient Density

Nutrient-dense soil, achieved through proper management, translates to nutrient-dense crops, promoting human health through the consumption of nutritious food. Soil amendments and organic matter incorporation enhance nutrient availability, contributing to the nutritional quality of harvested produce.

Food Sovereignty

Soil health is essential for ensuring food sovereignty by maintaining fertile land for local food production. Sustainable agricultural practices empower local communities to have control over their food systems, promoting self-sufficiency and resilience.

Climate change mitigation

Carbon Sequestration

Soil is a crucial carbon sink, and regenerative soil practices enhance carbon sequestration, mitigating climate change.

Water Retention and Drought Resilience

Improving soil structure and organic matter content enhances water retention, reducing the impacts of drought and supporting resilient ecosystems.

Learn more about soil ⇢Soil tests and pricing ⇢

Reports designed for visual learners, by visual learners.

Each report comes with personalized recommendations written by a soil expert.

  • Visualize nutrient, heavy metal, and contamination results.
  • Personalized amendment and fertilizer recommendations for your garden, landscape, or farm.
  • List of plant species suited to your soil, selected by our plant and soil experts.

Still have a question? Call our free soil-health hotline.

Open sample soil report (PDF)

Based in California

Alluvial Soil Lab is based in California. We specialize in comprehensive soil testing services to support agriculture, gardens, landscaping, and environmental sustainability across the state. Our dedicated team focuses on providing accurate and insightful soil analysis, offering essential information for optimizing crop yields, enhancing garden fertility, and promoting eco-friendly land management practices. California's diverse agricultural and ecological landscape demands a nuanced understanding of soil health, and our soil testing services cater to the unique needs of this region, empowering farmers, landscapers, and environmental enthusiasts to make informed decisions for sustainable land use.

Order soil sample collection kit ⇢

Soil types & information