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Ask Gardenerd: Soil Test Kits

April 28, 2020 By team Leave a Comment

Depending on the level of data you are looking to acquire when testing your yard’s soil, you can either purchase a store bought testing kit to use at home, or send out for a chemical lab test. The at-home testing kits look for potassium, phosphorus, nitrogen, and potential Hydrogen (pH). The test is conducted by inserting some soil into the testing chamber, and then adding water to activate the test. The more extensive varieties that are done in labs can also test for heavy metals present within the soil.

Key Takeaways:

There are four different levels that store bought soil testing kits test for: nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and potential Hydrogen.
Soil is put into the test chamber, and then water is added in order to activate the testing protocol.
For those who need more extensive testing done for things like hard metals, a chemical evaluation can be submitted to a lab for a more detailed result.

“To test for pH (alkalinity or acidity) you put a soil sample in the test chamber and add water, then add the capsule, which contains chemicals that reveal your pH levels.”

Homemade WEED KILLER: This is how well vinegar, epsom salt, and dishwashing soap works!

April 28, 2020 By team 1 Comment

Many gardeners are looking for a way to minimize the amount of weeds growing in and around their gardens without using any harsh chemicals that can be toxic to the environment. There is fortunately a natural weed killer that you can make with ingredients that are most likely already present in your home. All you need is one gallon of vinegar, one and a half cups of Epsom salt, and two tablespoons of liquid dish soap.

Key Takeaways:

The recipe first calls for approximately one gallon of vinegar, either white or apple cider.
You are also going to want to use one and a half cups of Epsom salt, which can be purchased at local drug stores.
The last ingredient on this list is two tablespoons of dishwashing liquid, regardless of brand.

“If you hate weeds in your garden but despise chemicals even more than this homemade weed killer might just be your new best friend! Spray this mixture to immediately begin killing weeds in and around your garden area.”

Coronavirus and Self-Reliance

April 28, 2020 By team Leave a Comment

Now that a pandemic has fallen upon us, more and more families are trying to increase their levels of self-reliance and sustainability. The number one way folks are acquiring these skills, is by learning how to garden. There are several tips that you can adhere to in order to get your gardening journey started, such as becoming familiar with spring garden planning, and building raised garden beds. You will also want to learn how to amend soil and transplant seedlings.

Key Takeaways:

When a pandemic like COVID-19 hits, society tends to focus more on community, health, and food as a way to heighten survival.
An easy way to get started on growing your own food is by purchasing the materials to build a raised garden in your backyard.
One of the most essential steps that you’ll want to become familiar with is transporting seedlings from your home into your garden.

“You don’t need to view all of these at once, just check back as you reach the next step in the process if you need more help. Each post walks you through the process.”