soil analyzer probe

I'm considering buying one of those 4-way soil analyzers and was wondering if anyone has ever compared their results to an actual "mailed in" soil test. I've tried testing my soil over the years using those test tubes with tablets/drops and haven't been satisfied that the results I got were accurate. I'm looking for a simple, reliable way to regularly test my garden soil. I prefer organic fertilizers and don't want to put in something I don't actually need. Thanks.

Reply to
fyrmnsflam
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Sorry for straying a bit, but... I am curious as to why you aren't satisfied with the do-it-yourself chemical tubes? Big differences when compared to a professional test?

As far as those electronic probes, I would imagine flakiness related to soil moisture variations. But I can't say for sure.

Reply to
Usenet2007

I have been using those, and all I can say is that they are at least consistent. Soil from nearby, equally composted beds, and soil from my houseplants (same compost source, different temperature and moisture) scored equally. Certainly, if you have a large garden with different soils in different beds, you go through it quickly (I have a second ten-samples one, which I will finish in the spring). Further, the pH scores agreed with the prevalence of indicator weeds (chickweed 6.5, dock 5, for example). I did get one bed mail-tested but I was dissatisfied with the procedure because some beds are on yellow sand and others are on black, boggy soil. Some beds have received lots of acid wood chips over the years and others have received the milder, less nutritious dried leaves.

I am probably sloppier than you are, because I have access to unlimited horse manure and wood ash, both of which correct problems quickly, and also I have a rough idea by now of what plants need, how much wood ash corrects the pH, and how long does it take for N to be depleted.

Reply to
simy1

I get an occasional e-mail from a Orchid supply house that is not too far from home and they sent a note the other day indicating that they had received some temp/PH meters ($61) and one that does temp/EC/TDS for $71 (these are the Hanna models) -- not sure if they can be used in soil or just for testing fluids such as those used in aquariums or for hydroponics/orchid growing. Any ideas on whether these can be used in soils as well would be much appreciated!

Reply to
Rick F.

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