Photos: Soil testing basics in the SC State BECT Institute’s greenhouse

Author: Sam Watson, Director of University Relations|Published: September 13, 2025|All News, Photo Galleries

ORANGEBURG, S.C. – Even city folks can have a green thumb if they know a bit about soil quality and its effects on plant life.

South Carolina State University’s Dr. Florence Anoruo demonstrated soil testing techniques on Wednesday at the Institute for Business, Communications, Environment and Transportation’s (BECT Institute) campus greenhouse.

The demonstration was part of the BECT Institute’s Urban Agriculture Workshop series, which centers around community-driven growth and sustainability. The weekly series’ goal is to bring people together to explore the potential of urban farming.

Wednesday’s session covered soil basics, testing for key nutrients and soil pH, and an introduction to phytoremediation, which is the practice of using plants to clean soil.

Anoruo is a plant and environmental scientist in SC State's Department of Biological and Physical Sciences.

The BECT Institute’s Urban Agriculture Workshops take place each Wednesday at 4 p.m. through Nov. 19. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just curious about the process, anyone is welcome to join.

For registration information or questions about the series, contact Pennelope Fennell, greenhouse manager at pfennel1@scsu.edu or 803-594-2824.

Dr. Florence Anoruo, a plant and environmental scientist in SC State's Department of Biological and Physical Sciences, helps freshman agribusiness major Rheina Brown load soil into a testing kit at the BECT Institute greenhouse.

Dr. Florence Anoruo, SC State freshman agribusiness major Rheina Brown and senior art major Meztli Herzog prepare soil testing kits in the BECT Institute's campus greenhouse.

Dr. Florence Anoruo speaks to workshop participants outside the BECT Institute's campus greenhouse.