How can you reliably measure pH in soil?

Why is it important to measure pH in soil?

The reason that pH is measured in soil is to measure its acidity. When growing plants, flowers or other organisms that use soil, the acidity level is a determining factor. If the soil has a poor pH value, the plants will not take up nutrients. To know what the acidity of your cultivation or garden soil is, we recommend you use a (digital pH) meter or indicator. A digital meter is the most accurate and reliable, because it can measure much more specifically instead of just giving an indication.

How do you do a reliable pH measurement of soil?

There are two ways of taking a pH reading from soil. The first and simplest way is to stick the pH meter directly into the soil.

In the second method, several ‘samples’ are taken from the soil by means of an auger. By taking a soil sample from the soil using a soil sampler and then putting the soil into a sample cup, a little demineralised water can be added. Then the digital pH hand meter can measure the mixture for pH-values. The value on the hand meter gives an accurate estimate of the pH value of the sample.

For a reliable measurement, always use a sample cup and a soil sample auger. This way of working is the most reliable, because you will always use the same measuring method consistently. This ensures reliability.

What is the best pH value for soil?

What exactly the pH value is for your crop has to be considered for each situation. The meters give pH-values between 0-14 pH where 7 is neutral. Anything below 6.5 is often considered ‘acidic’ and anything above 7 is considered basic.

The best pH meter for soil

The best pH meter must therefore be reliable and accurate. We have more than 60 years of experience with measuring instruments and measuring pH in soil. We recommend measuring pH in soil with the PH1210.