Land-Grant University 📍 St. Paul, MN (Accepts Samples Nationwide)

University of Minnesota Soil Testing Laboratory

Affordable Upper Midwest land-grant university testing. Provides garden lime, fertilizer, and lead safety interpretations.

Testing Scope & Analytical Methods

Direct Laboratory Fee

$21.00 (Verified Lab Fee)

Method: Lawn and Garden Soil Test with Lead Screen

[ESTIMATE] Total Out-of-Pocket: ~$26.00 (includes verified $21.00 fee + estimated $5.00 USPS Ground Advantage postage; actual postage varies by distance)

Turnaround & Out-of-State Eligibility

  • Expected Turnaround: 7-10 business days
  • Out-of-State Consumers Accepted: Yes, accepts mail-in samples from any US state.
  • Direct Contact: (612) 625-3101

Step-by-Step Sample Packaging Checklist

  1. Intake Requirement: 1 pint air-dried soil in clean plastic container/bag with Lawn and Garden form
  2. Use a clean stainless steel trowel to collect 5 to 10 sub-samples from your garden or play area at a depth of 2 to 6 inches.
  3. Thoroughly mix sub-samples in a clean plastic container and allow to air-dry indoors on paper towels for 12–24 hours (do not bake or heat).
  4. Place 1 cup of dry soil into a sturdy plastic zipper-seal freezer bag. Seal tightly and label clearly with your name and sample location.
  5. Download the official submission slip using the link on the right, fill out the client questionnaire, enclose payment (or online order confirmation), and ship via USPS Ground Advantage ($4.50–$6.00).

Official Submission

Download the verified laboratory intake questionnaire, mailing address label, and fee instructions directly from the official laboratory portal.

Download Official Submission Form → Visit Official Lab Website
Fee Provenance & Source:
Verified from UMN Soil Testing Lab service portal: $21.00 Lawn and Garden soil test with lead screen.
Last Verified: 2026-10-17
Official Published Fee Schedule →
Laboratory Contact:
University of Minnesota Soil Testing Laboratory
St. Paul, MN
Phone: (612) 625-3101