Soil analysis service

Our customised advice will help you learn more about your soil’s texture, pH and major nutrients

Handling soil sample

What is the soil analysis service?

This service provides an analysis of soil texture, pH, organic matter content and three major plant nutrients (potassium, phosphorus and magnesium). You will receive a detailed interpretation of the results as well as fertiliser recommendations for fruit, vegetables, ornamentals or lawns.

How much does it cost?

A fee is charged for this service:

  • RHS members: £33 per soil sample
  • Non-members: £40 per soil sample

The appropriate fee, or proof of prior payment, should be returned with any samples that you submit for analysis.

What do I need to do?

For those wishing to use the service, a pack containing 3 sample bags, a pre-addressed envelope and sampling instructions is available on request by emailing your name and address to: [email protected]*.

You can also request a sampling pack by writing to us at:

Soil Analysis Service
RHS Garden Wisley
Woking
Surrey
GU23 6QB


It is important to follow the instructions contained within the pack carefully and send the samples and correct fee (or proof of prior payment) back in the envelope provided. The completed report is then usually returned within 28 days.

Privacy notice: Your personal data will be used to provide you with the Soil analysis service. Except for where you have opted in to receive other information from us or are a current member, we will not use your personal data for any other purposes. Your personal data will be kept for 1 year. Please read our full RHS Privacy Policy for more information on how we process personal data and how you can exercise your rights under the Data Protection Legislation.

What are the limitations of the service?

The service only involves the analysis of nutrients in garden soils. Nutrient analyses of composts, manures or container media are not available through this service, nor is the analysis of potential soil contamination or soil-borne pests and diseases. The RHS will not enter into any legal disputes or negotiations. We are also unable to accept soil samples from outside the UK.

You might also be interested in...

  • RHS Garden Advice: As a member you’ll get extra one-to-one support from our team of gardening advisors
  • Fruit identification: Let the RHS Fruit Specialist identify your mystery apple and pear cultivars
  • Advice: Explore our advice pages, which hold a wealth of gardening information and tips for everyone

*Please note: This email address is solely for requesting soil analysis packs. For gardening advice, RHS members can contact our advisors Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm on 01483 479700, or ask your question anytime by logging on to My RHS.

Want more advice?

Explore our advice pages, which hold a wealth of information from our resident experts. From common garden problems to finding the perfect plant – we have it covered.

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The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.