STK 1 - RAPITEST SOIL TEST KIT - An
inexpensive
soil test kit that is a must for any backyard gardener. This kit
is simple to use and very reliable. Contains 40 tests (10 each
for
pH, Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium) with easy to use tablets.
Diagrammed
instructions are included, plus a chart of pH levels and NPK
levels
on over 100 plants. Get instant results on the soil conditions in
different parts of your garden or yard. Everything you need to
perform
the tests is included.
STK1 - $16.99
RPH - RAPITEST SOIL pH TEST KIT –
Tests
the pH of your soil in about ½ hour. Very easy to
use.
Comes with complete, detailed, diagrammed instructions. A
must
for growing healthy plants. Increase the yield in your garden by
having the proper pH for all your plants. 10 tests per box.
RPH - $4.69
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Information on Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, pH and Compost
NITROGEN – Nitrogen forms new cells and is essential to total plant development. A shortage of nitrogen halts plant growth and cell production. Symptoms of nitrogen deficiency are a yellowish brown color along the veins and tips of leaves, stunted growth of the plant or paleness in color on older leaves. Too much nitrogen can cause tall, spindly plants that easily topple over and nitrate poisoning (look for a strong red tint to the leaves). Nitrogen is also essential to the compost pile, as it aids in the breaking down of old plant residues. Good sources of nitrogen include: blood meal, cottonseed meal, fish meal, soybean meal, rabbit manure and tea grinds. You can also grow a cover crop of legumes in the fall to raise the nitrogen level for the next springs crop.
PHOSPHORUS – Phosphorus produces vigorous seed and root development. A shortage of phosphorus slows cell division and results in stunting of growth and late maturity of the plant. A symptom of phosphorus deficiency is spindly plants with purple streaks in the stems. Since phosphorus moves very slowly in the soil, it is essential to have it available during early plant development. Good sources for phosphorus include: bone meal, rock phosphate and colloidal phosphate. Incorporating organic matter (compost) into the soil makes the phosphorus present more readily available to the plants.
POTASSIUM – Also called Potash, this nutrient helps produce strong and sturdy stems. It advances root growth and helps plants resist disease and cold weather. A shortage of this nutrient causes stunting and stem weakness. Symptoms include a yellowing of leaf edges and yellowing of the leaves veins. This nutrient must be available during early plant development. Good sources of potash are: cow manure, compost, granite meal, greensand and wood ashes.
pH - pH is a measure of acidity or alkalinity on a scale of 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. The pH of the soil affects many elements, including nutrient availability, plant nutrient uptake, and microorganism activity. Because soil pH affects many factors, it is important to maintain proper pH throughout the growing season. Considering the complexity of factors involved, the recommended soil pH for each individual variety is very important. Regular pH testing will allow you to make informed decisions if soil pH adjustment is necessary.
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