Not sure how to prepare a sample for pH and EC/TDS testing (Nutrient Analysis)? Follow these steps, or watch the video below!
Step 1: Gather your materials. You will need:
- A container cleaned with distilled or DI water
- A measuring cup
- A fresh sample of your soil
- Distilled or DI water
- A magnetic stirrer OR a stirring utensil
Step 2: Measure out equal parts of soil and distilled water, ensuring there is a large enough sample to completely submerge your electrode.
Step 3: Add the soil to the clean container, then add the distilled water.
Step 4: Stir the sample. For best results use a magnetic stirrer. If you don’t have one on hand, use a clean stirring tool. Make sure all clumps of soil get broken up!
Step 5: Wait 15 minutes for the sample to settle before taking your measurement.
Step 6: Immerse your electrode into the sample and wait for a stable reading.
Hanna Tip: An ideal pH reading is between 5.5 and 7. If you are getting a reading far off from this, there may be a problem with your electrode. Check our pH Electrode Troubleshooting Guide for some common problems and how to fix them.
Step 7: Use Hanna’s GroLine pH/EC/TDS meters for soil analysis!
