Jim_M 178 #1 Posted June 1, 2012 Here's a simple economical basic soil test. It won't tell you everything but it can get you in the ballpark. Pust some of your soil in a clean glass jar, add a half cup of vinegar. If the soil bubbles or fizzes it's alkaline. If there's no reaction clean the container thouroughly, add a second soil sample and mix in 1/2 cup of water. Add a half cup of baking soda to the sample. If it bubbles or fizzes, the soil is highly acidic. Amend your soil with lime or wood ashes if it's acidic. Amend your soil with sulfur or pine needles if it's alkaline. Amending soil takes time so make small changes and retest after a month or two. 7 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sorekiwi 761 #2 Posted June 1, 2012 Thanks for that Jim, that would take 5 minutes and tell you what you have been wondering for months! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Martin 2,132 #3 Posted June 1, 2012 thanks jim, wife and i were talking about maybe testing the soil in our garden this year. i might just try this and see where it at....... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Jim_M 178 #5 Posted June 2, 2012 You still need a soil test kit to tell you the whole story but this can get you headed in the right direction. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Terry M-(Moderator) 2,175 #6 Posted June 3, 2012 Thanks Jim, I'll try that test and see where I'm at with my soil. My biggest problem is trying to grow corn. :banghead: Share this post Link to post Share on other sites