BEAVER FALLS — Wondering what's in your garden or yard soil? A chemical analysis will provide the answers.
From now through April 2, Geneva College's Chemical Society will analyze the pH, potassium and phosphorous content of submitted soil samples. The goal is to enable proper fertilization and treatment for the growing season.
Participants may submit samples from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays at two locations: Room 212 in the Science and Engineering Building on Geneva's main campus in Beaver Falls and at Campbell Laboratory at 1900 Third Ave. in New Brighton.
The first 100 samples will be accepted. A $1 donation is requested for each sample to defray the cost. Analysis is free for Geneva employees. Results will be mailed to participants the first week of May.
To obtain a sample, use a clean trowel to dip up a plug of soil about six inches deep. For a more representative sample, dig several plugs and mix them together. Soil should be fairly dry. Spread the soil on a newspaper to dry indoors for 24 hours, mix and break up lumps, then place one cup of soil into a plastic bag labeled with your name and address.
More information is available by calling Kerry McMahon, associate professor of chemistry, at 724-847-6722.