Knowing the health of soil for plants and anything else growing in a garden is important for amateurs and professionals. What nutrients are needed and whether soil is lacking them aren’t always clear, which is where soil test kits come into play. We’ve researched dozens of kits in order to come up with some of the best soil pH test kits on the market today. To make our list, we researched kits that are more user-friendly, easy to read results from, and have fairly accurate measurements.
10. Bluelad Growers Toolbox
The Bluelad Toolbox contains two different test pens, a pH and a ppm, so users are given everything they need in order to check the uptake of nutrients and the amount of food available. Additionally, this test even keeps an eye on temperature. Directions are simple enough to follow, making this toolbox a good choice for beginners.
Pros
- User-friendly
- Quick measurements
- Easy to read
Cons
- Difficulties calibrating
- Lacks longevity
9. Environmental Concepts 1663 Professional Soil Test Kit
A total of 80 tests come with this kit, which can leave about 20 tests each for pH, N, P, and K. All of these are tucked away in a durable plastic case for added protection. It’s even compact for easier carrying so users can take it anywhere they need. This kit comes along with an in-depth instruction booklet as well.
Pros
- Get results in minutes
- Numerous tests
- Affordable, professional solution
Cons
- Chemical test not the best/easiest for home users
- Some difficulties reading results
8. XLUX T20B Professional Soil pH Meter Tester
No battery or electricity is required for this tester; just plug down into the soil and test. With a simple press of the button, users can switch between checking the pH and checking the moisture levels. It isn’t difficult to use as long as one knows the depth of their plant’s roots.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Heavy duty design
- Great for indoor plants
Cons
- Readings can be off
- Probe could be longer
7. AUS 3-in-1 Soil Test Kit w/ Light Gauge Function
Users can determine a number of things with this 3-in-1 test kit. Besides measuring moisture and pH levels, this can help check if a plant is getting the light it needs. It doesn’t take much to use, and it’s simple enough to switch between the modes. Furthermore, it’s extremely affordable, making it ideal for hobbyist and professionals alike.
Pros
- Simple to use
- Economical choice
- 3-in-1 testing probe
Cons
- Numbers are tough to read
- Seems fragile
6. Kelway PHD Soil pH Meter
Although professionals make use of a test meter such as this one, it is easy for just about anyone to use. This handheld meter tests quickly. It’s generally easy to keep the point clean after each use as well. Users can typically get quality results that compare to a lab.
Pros
- Fairly accurate results
- Quick cleaning
- Takes several measurements in little time
Cons
- Not good for alkaline soil
- Soil must be thoroughly dampened to work
5. Luster Leaf 1601 Rapitest Soil Test Kit
This soil test kit from Luster Leaf comes with 40 tests to measure pH, N, P, and K. It also has a comprehensive chart of NPK and pH levels for over 100 different plants that users can refer to at any time. Plus, the kit comes with a color-coded chart for comparison. There’s even a reorder slip to easily get more tests at any time.
Pros
- Tests hundreds of plants
- Clear instructions
- Color-coded chart
Cons
- Can fall over when lids are on
- Capsules tough to open
4. Gain Express Soil pH & Moisture Meter
Waterproof and self-powered, users need nothing else but this 295mm electrode to test pH and moisture levels. The probe is slender and long enough to properly penetrate the soil so that users can take readings below the root zone. Its life can easily be extended with consistent wiping after use.
Pros
- Fast readings
- Measures deep
- Waterproof
Cons
- pH readings can fluctuate
- Top can break
3. Soil Savvy Soil Test Kit
Soil Savvy has created a professional-grade kit users can enjoy in the comfort of their homes. Reports are completely personalized, and they will indicate pH levels plus 14 nutrients found in the soil. Once a report is finished, users will discover which fertilizer will work best and how to maintain a healthy garden/plant.
Pros
- Step-by-step guide
- Thorough process
- Convenient & easy to use
Cons
- 1 graph per purchase
- Results can sometimes take long
2. BYFST 3-in-1 Soil Tester Kit
An environmental-friendly device, this soil test kit provides users with an extensive idea of soil conditions. It is able to read light, pH levels, and moisture levels, and adjusting the modes is quick. Anyone who is just beginning their gardening journey can use this as it’s straightforward.
Pros
- Easy to switch between modes
- 3 different tests
- Super affordable
Cons
- Some sensors may not work accurately
- Could be more durable
1. Bodear 4-in-1 Soil Tester
For quality testing, this 4-in-1 tester measures sunlight, pH levels, moisture, and temperature. The probe is remarkably sensitive, and for results users can read with no struggle, the test uses a backlight LCD display. To save on energy, the display auto shuts off in five minutes, while the entire device turns off in 10 minutes.
Pros
- Backlight LCD display
- Tests moisture, temperature, sunlight and pH
- Detailed readings
Cons
- Feels a bit delicate
- Not entirely waterproof
Conclusion
For anyone wanting to maintain a healthy garden, soil testing is an important factor. Having the right soil pH test kit may be a bit tough to come across, but our list of what we feel to be the best 10 products will help you narrow down your search. Feel free to comment if you’ve ever used any of these kits so we know how they worked out for you.
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