Skip to content Skip to sidebar Skip to footer
Home / Lawn Care

How to Test Soil pH and Why to Check Your Lawn's Acidity

soil ph for lawns,ph lawn care,lawn ph levels,lawn testing,grass testing,best ph for grass,lawn soil ph,soil ph chart,ph lawn tester,soil test for grass,lawn ph,lawn ph level chart,ideal soil ph,lawn ph level,soil ph balance,ph for grass,grass ph level,how to test lawn ph,soil ph for grass,how to test soil ph for grass


You may recall pH levels from chemistry class. A water solution can be alkaline or acidic. A number below 6 or 7 is considered acidic, whereas a number above 7 is considered alkaline. Lemon juice, for example, has a pH of 2.2.

If you own a pool, you may be familiar with pH. To keep the water clean and safe to swim in, it is necessary to test the pH levels and regulate the acidity accordingly. The same goes for harmonizing lawn soil pH. If you want a healthy, green lawn, you must test the pH levels in your lawn. Your lawn may not be as healthy, lush, or green as it should be if it is excessively acidic or alkaline. Learn why pH levels in lawns are important and how to test soil pH for lawns.


soil ph for lawns,ph lawn care,lawn ph levels,lawn testing,grass testing,best ph for grass,lawn soil ph,soil ph chart,ph lawn tester,soil test for grass,lawn ph,lawn ph level chart,ideal soil ph,lawn ph level,soil ph balance,ph for grass,grass ph level,how to test lawn ph,soil ph for grass,how to test soil ph for grass



Why your soil pH level in lawn matters


Soil pH is crucial for plants, like lawns, to absorb nutrients. Weeds and moss thrive in lawns with an acidic soil pH.

To maintain a beautiful lawn, you must regularly test the soil pH and adjust accordingly. The best pH for grass should be between 6.0 and 6.5 to 7.0, depending on the type of turf you have. A pH of 6 or less is acidic, and a pH of 7 or more is alkaline. Levels 6–7 are considered neutral. Lawns flourish in slightly acidic soil, so ensuring your soil is in the appropriate range is essential. Each grass type has its own pH level. 

Keep in mind that you should have grass that is suitable for your climate and soil type. If you don't, you're fighting a losing battle with your soil's pH and a lush, healthy lawn.

How to test soil pH for grass using a soil sample


So you must test your lawn's pH to ensure it is correct. Remember that this is a soil pH test, not a lawn pH test. So acquire a two to three inch soil sample free of grass, rocks, thatch, and everything else but soil. Soil's root zone gives you a solid idea of its soil. To get a better understanding of your lawn's health, collect soil from different parts of your yard.

The pH of the soil can alter over time, so it is vital to monitor it often. Lawn testing is an annual fall routine to ensure ideal lawn ph levels before spring, when grass grows.

How to raise or lower soil pH levels


After determining your soil's pH, you can help correct it if necessary. Too acidic soil can be adjusted using lime, whereas too alkaline soil can be adjusted with sulfur.

Lime, as well as sulfur, can help keep thatch away from lawns. These two items can also improve fertilizer efficiency. Adjusting the pH level can also assist in preventing lawn yellowing and increase grass nutrient absorption.

Take a soil sample to a lawn care professional to find out your lawn's pH level. Then they can help you alter your soil's pH level. Your lawn will be green and healthy all season again in no time.