You can start getting ready for the spring garden now.  First thing to do is to get a soil test run.  The LSUAg Center has the kits to use and we also have them at Minden Farm and Garden.  

To get a good test, take a sample from the soil about 3 to 4 inches deep.  Take about 5 samples in the area of your garden.  Mix them together to make one true sample.  Send this in to LSU for the results.  You also may want to send samples from your yard, by doing the same thing.  For this you need to know what kind of grass you are growing.

Back to the garden, a soil test will tell you many things that you may or may not know.  The results will determine what kind of fertilizer you need and whether or not it needs it.  The test also will show the kind of fertilizer you need and how much is needed.  For instance, the test will tell you that you need to put out 7.2 lbs. of nitrogen per 1000 square feet, .5 lbs. of phosphate  and 2 lbs. of potash.  You take these numbers to decide what kind of fertilizer to use.  Also the test results will show the sulfur needs and other elements you need.

Let’s don’t forget one of the most important results.  The pH value.  In this part of the country most of our soil needs lime.  The soil test results will tell you how much lime to use.  I think it is a good idea to lime now, so it can be working before you plant.  Getting a soil test early gives you a great head start on spring being a yard or garden.  

(Mitzi Thomas owns Minden Farm & Garden LLC. Watch for her column on Fridays in Webster Parish Journal.)