How to Check a Lawn's PH Level
- 1). Dig under the soil surface to obtain a sample. Make a small hole with a garden shovel. Grass roots do not grow far below the surface, so a sample of the soil two or three inches below ground level is what you will need to test. Avoid touching the soil sample since your hands have a pH value and, since you are using a small sample, the pH of your hands could affect the pH of the soil.
- 2). Drop the soil into the testing chamber of a pH test kit. These kits vary with regard to how much soil is necessary for a sample. Check the instructions so you do not add too much or too little. Typically, just a spoonful or so is needed.
- 3). Add the prescribed amount of water the kits calls for, then close up the container and shake vigorously to mix the soil and water.
- 4). Wait for the suspended solution to settle and change color.
- 5). Compare the color of the water and soil suspension to the color chart that comes with your kit to determine the pH of your soil.
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