A Soil Testing Adventure
We braved the high winds at the end of November to collect samples of soil from three very different locations on our test site: The Nursery Field, The Heather Garden and The New Build.
We scraped away the top layer of organic matter to reveal the topsoil underneath – some samples were easier to dig up than others – a lot of elbow grease was required!
We laid out each of the samples on plastic sheeting and left them in the cold greenhouse over Christmas to dry out.
Now had come the time to put on our white lab coats (to protect our clothes) and start the testing process. We were immediately transported back in time to school chemistry lessons all those years ago! ‘Now this is going to be fun!’ I thought.
Firstly we tested the soil’s texture. This can affect drainage and hence the workability of the soil – how easy it is to dig. We have all seen soil that is waterlogged and sticky in winter and cracked in the summer as opposed to soil which doesn’t hold water at all. In addition, the texture of the soil can affect how well nutrients are retained and how well the soil retains warmth through the seasons. This in turn can determine when best to sow seeds.
Taking care to check that any cuts on our hands were covered and that the samples had been inspected for foreign bodies (glass etc.), we ground the aggregates into small crumbs using a pestle and mortar and shook them up in a sieve.
The soil samples were transformed into a fine dust which we placed into three labelled weigh boat containers.
We took a walnut-sized amount of the soil powder and added drops of water until it became the consistency of pastry and carried out several checks. Could we feel sand grains when rubbing between finger and thumb? Could we hear the sand grains if we listen?
Does the soil feel silky? When it’s dropped on the table does it crack? Does it smear (look shiny when rubbed flat)? Can you roll it into a worm shape and bend into a circle without cracking?
Next, we put on gloves and started the PH test. This test determines the acidity or alkalinity of the soil which can dictate which plants are chosen for a given site or whether supplements need to be added to adjust the PH value hence broadening the choice of plants. Some plants prefer either acid or alkaline conditions. ‘How awkward of them!’ I thought. ‘But then they will be pandered to’ was my thought a moment later.
Already having decided the texture of each of the samples we added the required amount using a spatula into a test tube that had a bung in one end. Next, we added Barium Sulphate, distilled water and indicator fluid, shook it up and waited patiently for it to settle.
It didn’t take long for the liquid to clear and we could see each sample was a different colour. Checking against a PH colour card we could see exactly the PH value of each soil sample. It was like magic! Now we know which plants to choose, when to plant them and whether supplements need to be added. Bring on the spring!
It only leaves me to say – if trying these tests at home make sure children are kept at a safe distance and always follow the testing kit instructions. If in doubt you can always contact me for advice…and I also create beautiful garden designs so ask me about that too! See you soon!
