The Geneva College Chemistry Society will accept soil samples from March 5-23

BEAVER FALLS, PA (02/24/2012)(readMedia)-- Spring is coming, which means it's time once again to submit lawn and garden soil samples to the Geneva College Chemistry Society for testing. Samples will be received from Monday, March 5 through Friday, March 23. Only the first 100 samples will be accepted for analysis.

This year, there are two drop off-locations. Soil samples can be brought to Geneva College campus in Beaver Falls, outside room 212 in the Science & Engineering Building (S&E) from 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. They can also be dropped off at Campbell Laboratory, 1900 Third Avenue in New Brighton, from the hours of 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. This laboratory partner will collect samples for the Geneva College Chemistry Society to process and complete results. The additional location will provide a convenience to those gardeners in the local communities which Geneva College and Campbell Laboratory serve.

Soil samples may also be mailed to:

Dr. Kerry McMahon

Geneva College

3200 College Avenue

Beaver Falls, PA 15010

To correctly obtain the sample from a lawn or garden, use a clean trowel to dig up a plug of soil about six inches in depth. A more representative sample may be obtained by taking several plugs and mixing them together. Soil should be obtained when it is fairly dry, if possible. Spread the soil sample on a newspaper to dry indoors for at least 24 hours, mix thoroughly and break up lumps, and place about one cup into a plastic bag. Label the bag with name and address. If a plot has a problem area, it may be advisable to obtain a separate sample from this area.

Soil will be tested for pH, potassium content and phosphorous content. The pH is a measure of the acidity of the soil. Potassium and phosphorus are fertilizer nutrients needed by plants. Results will be mailed out in late April.

The Geneva Chemistry Society is accepting a donation of two dollars per sample to defray the costs of analysis. Any questions regarding soil testing should be directed to Kerry McMahon at 724-847-6722.

Geneva College is a comprehensive Christian college of the arts, sciences and professional studies. Founded in the tradition of the Reformed Christian faith, Geneva prepares students to serve Christ in all areas of society: work, family and the church. Geneva College's philosophy of education is based on the Foundational Concepts of Christian Higher Education. Geneva is a founding member of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU).