Start with the Soil

The first, and most important thing you can do to ensure a healthy landscape is to make sure your soil has the right pH level. You can plant the best seed, fertilize, mow and aerate, but if the pH isn't right, your grass can't absorb the nutrients in the soil, and will not thrive. The ideal pH for lawns is between 6.0 to 7.0, and the ideal pH for bedding plants is between 5.5 and 6.5. Most of our soil is acidic, and needs to be amended to achieve the proper pH.

For a small fee the Virginia Cooperative Extension will analyze your soil for texture, pH, lime content, and available nutrients, and recommend the proper fertilizer and nutrients.

For more information on conducting a soil test, contact the James City County Office of Virginia Cooperative Extension at (757) 564-2170.