Lake County’s Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Clinic tests soil pH only. Its page sends complete soil analyses to an outside laboratory and separately offers plant/insect diagnostic help. Choose the question before choosing a sample procedure. Clinic services
Prepare the local pH sample, not a different lab’s package
The clinic’s published pH instructions specify:
- Soil from the root-growing area: four inches down for turf, deeper for shrubs and trees.
- One cup in a ziplock sandwich bag for each sample.
- A location label on each bag.
- Up to six samples per visit, with a Contact Form.
LSL suggests matching each bag label to a simple location sketch: for example, “front lawn” should identify the same area in the bag label, submitted description and later result. Keep separate areas identifiable rather than blending soil from visibly different locations into one unexplained sample.
The general UF/IFAS soil-testing article describes a different sampling approach, including three-inch lawn cores and a pint of mixed soil, and tells readers to consult their county Extension agent first. Do not combine those quantities with the Lake clinic’s four-inch/one-cup pH instructions. The appropriate procedure depends on the requested analysis. General laboratory guidance
Match your visit to the help available
| Purpose | Published weekday hours |
|---|---|
| Plant Clinic assistance | 10 a.m.–2 p.m., excluding state and federal holidays; a volunteer is usually on duty |
| AgCenter material drop-off | 9 a.m.–4 p.m. |
Dropping off during the wider window does not reserve a consultation. The page also offers plant-problem email at lakemg@ifas.ufl.edu, with a description and images. Confirm current availability before traveling.
Drying time is not a promised delivery date
The clinic describes 24–48 hours of drying before pH processing. That is not a guaranteed total turnaround. Results are ordinarily given by phone; request text or email when submitting if preferred. Processing and result instructions
A pH number is not a nutrient panel or a diagnosis of every plant problem. UF/IFAS explains that soil testing does not prevent problems caused by drought, disease, insects or excess water and does not replace sound management. Its general article is adapted from a September 2003 circular, not new research performed in this review. Testing limits and attribution
LSL checked both pages on September 20, 2026. We preserved the useful test-scope and hours distinctions and added the actual local preparation requirements. No sample was collected or tested, and no fertilizer or treatment is prescribed here.