buffer pH

Whether it’s preparing customer properties for spring, ongoing maintenance, or troubleshooting problems, soil testing is often a highly recommended step in many aspects of landscape care. But how many actually perform such tests? And further, how many are confident in interpreting the results? Without these skills, you could be missing out on crucial information that could make your job a lot easier—and differentiate yourself from competition. The soil test report for a lawn or garden soil sample will mean little unless you understand the terms and numbers used. As a lab agronomist with Spectrum Analytic, Inc. for the past 20 years, I not only conduct soil and plant tissue analysis, but train others in how to read the results. The Spectrum Analytic soil test report (seen below) includes the analytical results and a graphic representation of those results—including the status levels and nutrient recommendations—if requested. Most soil test reports will be in a similar format with some small differences. This article will provide definitions of terms and acceptable ranges, which should help you in planning a soil management program. Soil pH The term pH is used to express the acidity or alkalinity of the soil and is measured on a 0 to 14 scale. Seven is neutral, while values below 7 are acidic and values above 7 are alkaline. The pH is important because it affects the availability of nutrients in the soil that are essential for plant growth. The availability of most nutrients is best at a pH of ...