Lead paint from deteriorated siding, windows, and trim can contaminate soil. Lead doesn't disappear, so it is not safe to assume that soil near a pre-1978 home is lead free, even if the exterior paint is currently in good condition.

Polk County published several tips to help gardeners stay lead safe.

• Garden well away from old buildings where deteriorated lead paint has fallen, and away from heavily traveled roadways, where lead from gasoline may have settled.

• Avoid planting root crops in soil that contains more than 1,000 ppm of lead and do not plant crops in soil that contains more than 1,500 ppm of lead. University of Iowa Hygienic Laboratory can provide supplies for you to do a soil test for $20. Call 800-421-4692.
• Always wash and peel all vegetables, fruit and root crops before eating. Consider using raised beds with clean dirt for your garden.