How Do You Test Soil PH With PH Test Strips?
Soil pH test strips (similar to litmus paper) offer answers about the acidity or alkalinity of a soil sample. The pH scale ranges from 1 (acid) to 14 (alkali) with 7 being neutral. Generally most nutrients dissolve best when the soil pH is 6.5 to 7. Knowing soil pH allows you to choose plants that will thrive in your locale. Pour the soil sample in the bowl and add enough distilled water to create a mixture with the consistency of a milkshake. Stir well. Leave mixture alone for one hour, but add water as needed to retain consistency. Place a drop of the mixture on a test strip and wait one minute. Rinse strip with distilled water. Match test strip color with the accompanying color chart.