Land-Grant University 📍 New Brunswick, NJ (Accepts Samples Nationwide)

Rutgers Soil Testing Laboratory

Affordable Mehlich-3 extraction lead screen ($18 when added to fertility or $23 standalone). High reputation across mid-Atlantic urban gardening.

Testing Scope & Analytical Methods

Direct Laboratory Fee

$18.00 (Verified Lab Fee)

Method: Lead Screening by Mehlich 3 Extraction

[ESTIMATE] Total Out-of-Pocket: ~$28.00 (includes verified $18.00 fee + estimated $5.00 USPS Ground Advantage postage; actual postage varies by distance)

Full Heavy Metals Panel Option

$55.00

Soil/Plant Suitability Test (Nutrients, Organic Matter, Heavy Screen)

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: (848) 932-9295

Step-by-Step Sample Packaging Checklist

  1. Intake Requirement: 1-2 cups dry soil in bag with Home and Landscape Questionnaire ($5 fee if standalone sample processing required)
  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 official Rutgers Soil Testing Lab price list: $18.00 lead screening by Mehlich-3 added to fertility, or $23.00 standalone.
Last Verified: 2026-10-17
Official Published Fee Schedule →
Laboratory Contact:
Rutgers Soil Testing Laboratory
New Brunswick, NJ
Phone: (848) 932-9295