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Soil Testing Kits

Hi Bobbi

Tis the 'other Bobbie' here in MA

Yes, soil testing is easy if you have someplace to go. Here in Ma
they have just about disappeared from view!  I usually watch Mother
Nature and see what is growing in an area to half guess what the soil
acidity or sweetness is.  For example, here blueberries grow wild, as
does oak trees, mt laurel, junipers, and strawberries, all of which
grow naturally in " very  " acidic soil.  (mine did test at 5.3 and 5.
5 when I first started gardening).  Compost, if done properly is
usually neutral.  Signs of sweet soil, I believe are maple trees, and,
 ah, sorry, but need to think of the other signs.  Anway-

For blueberries, it is suggested that you put wood shavings, wood
chips, wood sawdust, if you can get it from a lumber yard, or
carpenter. I do it, as I amend my soil to get it sweeter!  This is
the mulch used to help keep the soil acidic here around blueberry
bushes. I know , next you are going to ask from what kind of trees! I
would assume pine!

To counteract the nitrogen lost while this is breaking down, just add
some nitrogen each spring.  I have also found that they do better in
WET soils and in more sun than shade

hope this helps

Bobbie B
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