How to Check Lawn Soil for pH
Variations in the quality of the soil in your yard can negatively affect grass. It is important, therefore, that you test the pH level in your soil before planting grass seed. Having an accurate reading of the pH will let you know exactly how you need to amend your soil. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Dig up several soil samples with a shovel and place them in separate containers. Get samples from each corner of your yard, the center of your yard and any areas that are unusually damp or dry. Gather the samples at least 3 inches below the surface of the soil.
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Add water to the soil samples according to the directions on your soil testing kit. Most test kits require that you let the soil sit in the water for a while before beginning the test.
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Pour the correct amount of soil into the test kit and shake it.
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Allow the soil to settle in the test kit and let the color develop.
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Check your reading. If the test reveals that your soil's pH is lower than 6.0, it means that your soil is too acidic; you will need to add lime to the soil before seeding it. A pH reading above 7.5 indicates that your soil is too alkaline; you will need to add peat moss before seeding. A very high pH level will require that you add sulfur to the soil.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a shovel to gather the samples, not your hands. Residue from your hands can alter the pH reading.
