I would always recommend a soil sample. After several attempts at plant and pray, the $10 expense is well worth it. It takes a lot of the mystery out of it. I have a marsh that went dry this summer, bottom was rich dark bown earth, we had lots of grasses growing in parts, otehr parts were bareen. I took a sample of the barren location and the ph was way too low. We are going to wait for a freeze and car lime out on a sled with the 4 wheelers. otherwise, we will boat it out in 5 gallon buckets in the spring. It is not a huge area, and every bit helps, so we are going to put in the effort. Take the soil sample and get the test done. just my opinion.