If you are concerned about soil health, it's important that you discover what's happening beneath the surface. Soil testing can provide you with a comprehensive view of your soil's makeup and how it is performing. Here are some of the things typically measured during a soil test. By understanding these metrics, you can make informed decisions about how to improve your soil health.
1. pH Level
A pH level is a number that identifies the alkalinity or acidity of the soil. A neutral pH level of between 6.5 and 7.5 is ideal for most plants. Soils with a pH level below 5.5 are strongly acidic, while those with a pH level above 7.5 are considered to be alkaline. Some plants are able to tolerate a wide range of pH levels, while others are much more sensitive. If you're unsure of the soil's pH level, you should have it tested. Once you have worked out the pH level of your soil, you can choose plants that are best suited for your garden's conditions.
2. Nutrient Content
Most gardeners understand the importance of fertilising their plants. But did you know that you can get your soil tested to see what nutrients it's lacking? This information can be very helpful in ensuring that your plants are getting the nutrients they need to grow healthy and strong. The three primary nutrients that are typically tested for are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for plant growth and must be present in the soil for plants to thrive. Soil testing is a simple and relatively inexpensive way to ensure that your plants get all the nutrition they need. You should periodically test your soil to ensure that it is still nutrient-rich and supports healthy plant growth.
3. Cation Exchange Capacity
Cation exchange capacity (CEC) is a measure of a soil's ability to hold and exchange cations. Cations are positively charged ions that play an important part in plant nutrition. The higher the CEC, the more cations the soil can hold. In general, clay soils have a higher CEC than sandy soils. Soil with a high CEC is generally more productive than soil with a low CEC because it can better support plant growth. So if you're looking to boost your garden's productivity, you might want to focus on increasing the CEC of your soil. There are a few ways to do this, including adding organic matter or using products that contain clay.
For more info, contact a soil testing service today.
My name is Tina and I am a big fan of the planet we live on. I didn't always use to be this way. In the past, I would throw trash all over the place. I would leave the lights in my house turned on when I was out. And I didn't worry about recycling. However, one day, my kid came home from school and said he had been learning about recycling. He was pretty upset and said I should do more to save the planet. So, I did. I hope this blog helps you to do more to protect the environment.