Now that our weather has begun to turn cooler and our garden activities begin to slow down, this would be an ideal time to have your soil tested, especially if you either haven’t done it or if it was done more than 5 years ago.  All you need to do is use a hand trowel to randomly scoop up soil from the top 4-6 inches from 6-10 different areas.  Place approximately a fist full in a ziplock plastic bag and turn it into the Volusia County Ag Center located in from of the fairgrounds on SR44 near the I-4 interchange.  The charge for each analysis is $1.00.  Not only will you know your soils’ pH, but also its solubility (aka nutrient level).  When collecting your samples, if the soil (and plant growth) appears to be uniform, only 1 sample will be needed; however, should you have any areas where your plants aren’t doing well, separate samples should be taken.  If you turn in your sample(s) by Wednesday afternoon, you’ll have the results plus any recommendations by the beginning of the following week.  And one more thing, when you drop off your sample, you’ll need to fill out a soil test form.  Be sure to include what plant(s) are growing in the area where the sample was collected.  Also write on the outside of each bag you submit with your name and phone number.  If more than 1 test is required, number each bag.