Fall is a good time to submit soil samples to the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for crop-specific recommendations. Testing is free for North Carolina residents through Nov. 30, 2026. Peak season, Dec. 1, 2026, through March 31, 2027, carries a $5 per sample fee.
To avoid the fee, samples must physically arrive at the Agronomic Services Division, 4300 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh, NC 27607, by 5 p.m. Nov. 30. Shipping date, postmark, or delivery to a local Extension office does not count.
To prevent delays, complete a soil submission form with your full name and address, a valid email address, a phone number, and a crop code, which allows the lab to give crop-specific recommendations. Reports are delivered by email. You can also submit online through the PALS portal, but enclose a printed copy of the submission form with your samples.
For more information, call 919.664.1600 or visit the NCDA&CS Soil Testing webpage.