What is the best method to assess soil health before planting?

Soil testing for pH and nutrient levels is the most reliable method to assess soil health before planting. This process provides quantifiable data on the soil's chemical composition, allowing for a thorough understanding of its fertility and overall health. Soil tests can reveal essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients, as well as the pH level, which influences nutrient availability to plants.

Understanding these factors enables the gardener or landscaper to make informed decisions about amendments needed prior to planting. For instance, if a soil test shows low pH, lime may be added to raise it, ensuring that plants can access the nutrients they require for optimal growth. Similarly, identifying deficiencies in critical nutrients allows for targeted fertilization, promoting better plant health and development.

In contrast, the other methods—such as simply smelling the soil, visually inspecting it, or asking a neighbor—offer anecdotal or superficial assessments that may not accurately reflect the soil's health. These approaches lack the objectivity and detailed information provided by comprehensive soil testing, which is essential for successful planting and landscaping.