pH Meters

If this question is still relevant to you, I recently learned that you don’t need a meter for pH. You can use pH strips. This method gives a general idea of soil pH but isn’t as precise as a lab test. For better accuracy, repeat the test with samples from different areas of your soil. Here’s how:

What You’ll Need:

• pH test strips (wide-range strips are best, around pH 4–9)
• Distilled water (avoids interference from tap water)
• A clean container (glass or plastic)
• A spoon or stick for stirring
• A coffee filter or fine sieve (optional, for clearer liquid)

Steps:

1. Collect Soil – Take a small sample from about 3–6 inches deep in your garden or field. Use soil from multiple spots for a more accurate reading.
2. Prepare the Slurry – Mix 1 part soil with 5 parts distilled water in your container. Stir well and let it sit for about 15–30 minutes to allow the pH to stabilize.
3. Filter (Optional) – If the water is very cloudy, pour it through a coffee filter or fine sieve to get a clearer solution.
4. Dip the pH Strip – Place a pH strip into the liquid for the recommended time (usually a few seconds).
5. Compare the Color – Match the strip’s color to the pH chart provided with your strips.

Interpret Results:

• pH 6.5–7.5 → Neutral (ideal for most plants)
• Below 6.5 → Acidic (common in forested or high-rainfall areas)
• Above 7.5 → Alkaline (common in dry, arid soils)