Soil Testing

Laboratory Soil Testing

Soil Testing Service

Healthy lawns, gardens and landscapes all begin with the soil beneath them. The Mill’s Laboratory Soil Testing Service provides accurate, science-based insight into the chemistry and physical structure of your soil, helping you make informed decisions that lead to stronger plants and better results. Instead of guessing which products to apply, a soil test gives you a clear diagnosis and a targeted plan based on your soil’s unique needs.

What a Soil Test Reveals

A professional soil analysis measures essential chemistry levels like pH, nutrient content and buffer pH, as well as key physical attributes such as organic matter, soil type and cation exchange capacity (CEC). CEC is especially valuable because it indicates how well your soil can hold and supply nutrients to your plants. These factors work together to determine root development, water retention, fertilizer performance and overall plant health.

Testing your soil helps you:

  • Maximize your lawn or garden’s potential
  • Understand pH and nutrient balance
  • Apply the right amount of fertilizer and lime
  • Save money by avoiding guesswork and unnecessary applications
  • Support the environment by reducing chemical overuse and runoff into waterways

With a complete picture of your soil, you can correct imbalances before they create bigger issues like thin turf, poor plant growth or nutrient loss.

Expert Interpretation and Recommendations

Receiving lab results is only the first step. The Mill’s specialists review your report and translate the data into clear, practical recommendations tailored to your goals and the Mid-Atlantic region. Whether you’re growing turf, vegetables, ornamentals or forage, our team explains what your soil needs and outlines a step-by-step plan to improve long-term soil health and plant performance.

How to Collect a Soil Sample

Proper sampling ensures accurate results. Follow these steps for best outcomes:

  1. Gather 10 to 12 samples from throughout your lawn or garden.
  2. Sample 4–6 inches deep for lawns and 6–8 inches deep for gardens.
  3. Remove the top 1/2 to 1 inch of thatch from each sample.
  4. Avoid rocks, sticks, grass and leaves, collecting soil only.
  5. Mix all samples in a clean bucket.
  6. Bring one quart (in a zip-top bag) of the mixed soil to The Mill.

We send your sample to the lab and typically return results with expert recommendations within two weeks.

Purchase a Soil Analysis

John Vinson

Turf Expert

jvinson@themillstores.com 410-459-3289

As the Turfgrass Agronomist at The Mill, I work directly with golf courses, lawn care professionals, contractors, homeowners, and our retail team to support all aspects of turfgrass management. From professional turf applications to backyard lawn solutions, I’m passionate about helping people grow and maintain healthy, vibrant turf.

I was raised in Bel Air, Maryland, and hold a degree in Business Management from Towson University, as well as a Turfgrass Management degree from the University of Maryland, College Park. I’m also a Class A member of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA), a reflection of my long-standing commitment to excellence in turf care.

Before joining The Mill, I spent 25 years as the Golf Course Superintendent at a private country club, gaining extensive experience in high-level turf management and agronomic planning. Whether I’m building a customized plan for a golf course or guiding a homeowner toward the lawn of their dreams, I bring the same attention to detail and passion to every project.

Outside of work, you’ll likely find me cheering on University of Maryland football or basketball, fishing on the Susquehanna, tending to my garden, playing basketball, or simply enjoying time outdoors.

I look forward to helping you achieve success in all your turfgrass endeavors.

David Boniface

Certified Crop Advisor

crops@themillstores.com 410-692-2200

As one of The Mill’s Agronomists, I truly believe I have one of the best jobs in the world. Every day, I have the opportunity to work alongside farmers, nursery managers, turf professionals, and equine facilities — sharing knowledge, offering support, and helping each one succeed in their goals. My focus is always on promoting soil health, improving efficiency, and reducing environmental impact, all while fostering long-term sustainability for the communities we serve.

I was fortunate to grow up in the rural beauty of Harford County — a setting that shaped my appreciation for agriculture and the land we strive to protect. After earning my degree in Agronomy and Environmental Science from Delaware Valley College, I began my career as a Golf Course Superintendent, which gave me a strong foundation in plant science and land management.

Over two decades ago, The Mill reached out with an opportunity, and I’ve proudly been part of the team ever since. The relationships I’ve built, the ideas I’ve shared, and the progress I’ve seen have made this journey incredibly fulfilling.

Family always comes first in my life. When I’m not in the field, you’ll likely find me outdoors — especially during hunting season — or giving back to the community in any way I can. The friendships I’ve made through my work at The Mill are truly priceless, and I look forward to continuing to support our customers and community for years to come.