Delta Urban Soils Laboratory

Dr. Anna Paltseva, assistant professor of environmental science in our School of Geosciences is the director of the recently formed Delta Urban Soils Laboratory. The Delta Urban Soils Laboratory can help small production farmers, gardeners, landscape designers and architects, homeowners and environmental firms better understand what's in their soil. "It's important to know what is in your soil so you can grow plants effectively. People will say, 'My plants are dying. I don't know what I am doing wrong.' But if you study the soil, you can see what you need to do to fix it in order to meet the needs of the plant,' Paltseva said. "The soil speaks for itself," she added.

The Delta Urban Soils Lab examines samples submitted by the public to identify which nutrients the soil contains - and which it needs - to improve plant growth. Tests also pinpoint soil composition and detect any contaminants that are hindering development. The lab accepts samples from anywhere in the United States. Results will be emailed within two business weeks from the day samples are received, Paltseva said. Individual tests and testing packages are available. Visit the lab webpage for information, including pricing and how to submit samples. "Soil science should be available to all who are motivated to make a difference from the ground up. That's the mission of the Delta Urban Soils Lab - to make soil science accessible to the public."