What is the purpose of soil testing?

The purpose of soil testing is primarily to analyze the nutrient content and pH of the soil. This information is crucial for understanding the soil's capabilities and limitations regarding plant growth. By determining the levels of essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, along with the soil's pH, landscape contractors and gardeners can make informed decisions about fertilization and soil amendments. This ensures that plants receive the necessary nutrients for healthy growth while also maintaining appropriate acidity or alkalinity levels for optimal performance.

Soil testing doesn't focus on other aspects like the color of the soil or solely checking for drainage issues. While color might provide some insights into soil types, it doesn’t directly inform nutrient content or pH levels. Drainage issues are also important, but they require different assessments beyond basic soil testing. Additionally, assessing local fauna might be relevant for ecological studies or biodiversity assessments, but it does not pertain to the immediate needs for plant nutrition and soil health. Thus, analyzing nutrient content and pH is critical for effective landscape management and successful gardening practices.