Testing the pH levels of your grass turf at home is an important process in understanding the soil from which your plants are growing. A good pH level will help to ensure that your soil is providing the necessary minerals and nutrients to your instant turf. Prior to laying down a new grass turf, make sure to check pH levels to get the most out of your backyard.
The Testing Process
A simple method is to use a home testing kit. This involves taking soil samples from your backyard and using either vinegar or distilled water to identify whether you have acidic or alkaline soil. Alternatively, you can use an electronic pH meter that has a probe inserted into the soil and provides you with a reading of the acidity or alkalinity of your soil.
Adjusting and Balancing
A pH value over 7.0 indicates alkaline soil, meaning it is low on nutrients. This can be treated with compost and manure or mulch, which can help to adjust this reading and increase levels of iron, manganese and phosphorus. A reading below 7.0 indicates acidic soil, a common case in Australia. This soil can be balanced by adding lime, poultry manure or dolomite. As rain tends to wash away essential nutrients in your soil, checking the acidity levels can help to prevent this occurring.
Why Test pH?
When installing grass rolls in your backyard, check the pH levels to ensure that you select an instant turf best suited to your soil conditions. This will ensure that your grass receives the necessary minerals and nutrients to thrive and can also help you to maintain old turf. While some fruit and vegetable plants grow well in acidic and alkaline soil, keeping these pH levels at a suitable level will help to keep your general grass area happy and healthy.
To view our range of grass rolls or learn more about conducting a pH level test, call our team on 1800 622 455 or contact us online.
