Summary

Helps home gardeners use soil and potting-mix test reports to make better fertilizer and pH decisions for vegetables. It explains key terms (pH, nutrient ratings, soluble salts/EC, nitrogen forms), why soil tests differ from soilless media tests, and why “more fertilizer” can hurt plants and water quality. Practical guidance includes choosing fertilizer types (granular, controlled release, water soluble), applying them correctly (broadcast, band, sidedress), converting recommended rates to common bed and container sizes, and timing in-season feeding while balancing irrigation to reduce leaching and salt buildup.