What does a soil test analyze?

A soil test is a fundamental tool used for understanding the health and fertility of soil. It primarily analyzes nutrient levels, which include essential elements such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as secondary nutrients like calcium and magnesium. Additionally, the test measures the pH of the soil, which is crucial because it impacts nutrient availability and microbial activity in the soil.

The importance of nutrient levels and pH cannot be overstated: knowing these allows gardeners and farmers to make informed decisions about fertilization and soil amendments to enhance plant growth and crop yield. Given that the correct choice focuses on both these critical aspects—nutrient levels and pH—it provides a comprehensive understanding of what a soil test aims to evaluate, making it the most accurate answer for the question posed.