soil tests

[Sunny757]

Has anyone found one of these that is accurate? I wanted to get one of those prong type ones where you stick it in the dirt and it tells you the pH, water needs, sunlight exposure, and the N,P,K. They run about $20. But I was reading online last night and reviews weren''t so good. Said they don't work. They tried it in vinegar and cow's milk which is supposed to have a certain reading, and it wasn't even close.

I also got one of those capsule type tests yesterday. Didn't have much luck with that either. I got a reading for pH and the Phosphorous. Neutral and very low. The Nitrogen and Potash didn't even turn a color. So I tried another test. I had bought 2. One to do now and one for spring. Same result.

Anyone know where I can get a reliable test done for free or cheap? Does Lowes or nurseries do soil tests?

[zuzu's petals]

Anyone know where I can get a reliable test done for free or cheap?

Local Agricultural agent maybe?

[Mandy]

I know from the people that I've talked with, all recommended using the county cooperative offices like zuzu suggested. That seems to be the best bet because you get a professional, in-depth analysis of your soil. I've used the kits that you tried and I honestly can't tell you if they were even accurate.

[gone_tropical]

yes, your local extension offers those tests for free..

I got one of those kits at Lowes, did the test and took the soil to the extension office. the reading was not that far off.

[Mandy]

Well that's good to know!

[Sunny757]

I went to lowes the other night and asked 'em about soil testing and they said the do it for free. I'm not sure if it's all the Lowes or just the ones here but that was cool to know.