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We don't do soil testing here. Your local extension group should offer testing.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-soil.htm

From what I've read, this type of soil is fine for all general gardening applications. You do need to add fertilizer that is appropriate for your plants. If fertilizer isn't available you can start a compost pile.

As far as the soil goes- I don't think I would go with the knife option. You can get soil to loosen up, naturally, buy introducing worms and mulching a little. They will turn the soil, naturally, as they move and make homes.

As far as the fertilizer goes- This will depend on the plant in question. Many plants have different feeding requirements and will needed to fed accordingly.

We can give general feeding information, however:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/fertilizer-numbers-npk.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/composting/vermicomposting/benefits-of-garden-worms.htm

No, we don't provide that service but you can make your own organic soil by adding soil amendments such as compost or manure to your soil. You can buy compost since your worm compost will not be ready. Your local extension can offer more information. These articles should help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/the-importance-of-soil-for-an-organic-garden.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/extension-search

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/what-is-extension-service.htm

Since you’ve cleared out those old, neglected hedge plants from your front porch garden and some roots are still hanging around, you’re on the right track. For your new flowers and decorative plants, start by digging out as many leftover roots as you can to avoid competition—don’t stress if a few tiny ones stay, just break them up. The old soil needs a refresh, so loosen it with a shovel or fork, about 12 inches deep, and mix in some compost or aged manure to boost nutrients (skip chemicals for now—natural’s better to start). Top it up with a 2-3 inch layer of fresh topsoil or potting mix, especially since it’s old, and rake it smooth. You’re set for planting!

You'll still want to test your soil though, periodically, to make sure that it isn't lacking anything, or have too much of anything.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/compost-as-soil-amendment.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers

It just depends on what you are growing. Starting with a soil test will determine what amendments you need to add to existing soil. These articles should help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/compost-as-soil-amendment.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/types-of-organic-fertilizer.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/hgen/herb-garden-tips-and-tricks.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/top-of-the-crop/top-10-edible-leafy-greens

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/vgen/growing-a-vertical-vegetable-garden.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/pros-and-cons-of-raised-beds.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/vgen/raised-vegetable-gardens.htm