Fertilizer, watering, and soil improvement are mandatory operations when growing crops. However, if you do not know what your plants need, the above procedures will not result.
But how to know what the crop is missing? The test is the correct answer. And when it comes to crop testing, it’s impossible to mention soil testing.
Good control of the elements in the soil is also the control of plant growth. And to control the condition of the soil, you need the help of soil test kits.
If you still haven’t found the right product, here is a list of the best soil test kits and instructions for your reference.
Let’s get right into the details!
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The 10 Best Soil Test Kits in 2021- Detailed Reviews
Just looking for a device that can measure soil moisture? Need a multi-function meter? Want accurate measurement results?
Whatever your requirements for a soil test kit are, you can find a product that can meet them in the list below.
1. MySoil Soil Test Kit - Best For Overall
Via: Amazon.com
Feature Highlights
- Test pH and 12 types of nutrients.
- Includes: sample vial, absorbing capsule, instructions for use.
- Results come from professional labs.
Want reliable results and advice specific to your plants? My Soil Soil Test Kit is a perfect choice.
Unlike most test kits available on the market, MySoil Soil Test Kit works in the following way: collect a soil sample, register for an online test, and then send the soil sample to the company. After testing and analysis by experts, you will get your results back online.
The analytical results you get back are not just exact numbers about pH or types of nutrients. More valuable, you also receive in-depth analysis of experts and advice on soil customization, if any.
In addition, you will receive specific product recommendations for soil improvement. If you are a beginner in farming and do not know much about soil and fertilizers, let MySoil Soil Test Kit help you choose.
If you are aiming for sustainability, pre-planting soil testing is extremely important. And it’s even more helpful when you get expert advice on how to improve your soil.
MySoil Soil Test Kit will meet your needs well. The kit’s measurement results and recommendations will help you complete the first step of preparation, promising to deliver the strongest possible growth.
Pros:
- Accurate results.
- Easy to use.
- Measure Not only the pH but also measure the content of nutrients.
- There are many useful tips.
- Suitable for all types of soils and gardens.
Cons:
- It takes 6-8 days to get the results.
2. Luster Leaf 1601 - Best For Beginners Gardeners
Via: Amazon.com
Feature Highlights
- Measure pH and three kinds of nutrients N, P, K.
- Includes 40 test capsules, sample tube, color chart, instruction manual.
If you want to measure soil nutrients and pH but don’t want to wait, like using the MySoil Soil Test Kit, try the Luster Leaf Rapitest 1601.
This kit is based on chemical reactions for soil testing.
Luster Leaf Rapitest 1601 has tubes for you to collect soil samples. Add distilled water and mix with reagents. When the mixture above reacts with the soil, compare the resulting color with the accompanying palette.
You can test the 3 main nutrients N, P, K, and soil pH with Luster Leaf Rapitest 1601. Just wait 5-10 minutes, then compare. Soil testing couldn’t be easier.
Another advantage of the kit is that it includes suitable pH recommendations for 450 different crops. The list is a valuable reference, helping you know what to do after a soil test.
The principle of operation by comparing the color with the color palette of the kit may not give accurate enough results like professional meters.
However, if you’re an amateur gardener, knowing what pH and nutrient ranges are in is more than enough. And the Luster Leaf 1601 Rapitest Soil Test Kit is capable of meeting your needs.
Pros:
- 2 in 1 measuring tool.
- For quick results.
- A color comparison chart for each measurement is included.
- Includes recommendations for the right pH for 450 different plants.
- Easy to use.
Cons:
- Accuracy is not as high as professional measuring instruments.
3. REOTEMP Garden and Compost - Best For Compost
Via: Amazon.com
Feature Highlights
- Moisture meters.
- 15 Inch Stem, Thick 5/16″.
- Battery: 1 AAA.
The special feature of the REOTEMP Garden and Compost Moisture Meter is that the device will not give an accurate result for the moisture of the soil or manure that you want to measure.
Instead, you will manually set the moisture level that you consider most suitable for the plant and set it to 5. The meter will measure and compare the moisture level with 5. Less than 5, soil or manure Your fertilizer is too dry. Conversely, greater than 5, the soil or fertilizer is too wet.
Different plants have different moisture needs. In addition, depending on the growth period, the most suitable humidity for the tree changes.
The device’s self-adjusting feature to the standard humidity level can be of great help when you are in the above situations.
If you simply want to avoid too high or too low the humidity of the soil or manure you compost, the results that the REOTEMP Garden and Compost Moisture Meter bring will make you happy.
Pros:
- The frame is made of sturdy stainless steel.
- Measure both soil and fertilizer moisture.
- Battery included.
- Optimum level can be adjusted manually.
- Gives an alert if the humidity is too high or too low.
Cons:
- The salt content can affect the measurement results.
4. Primens Soil Test Kit- Best For Problem Solving
Via: Amazon.com
Feature Highlights
- Measure moisture, light, pH.
- Solar-powered.
- The display has a color indicator.
Primens Soil is a three-in-one measuring kit: measuring light, humidity, and pH.
With just a few simple steps, you can measure the three factors that most affect plant growth. Simply insert the induction probe into the soil about 2-4 inches deep. Three measurement modes are corresponding to the three indicators.
All you need to do is select the measurement mode and wait for less than 10 minutes.
Exact results will be displayed on the screen. In addition to the exact measurement, you can rely on the scale color to conclude the condition of the soil.
And are you curious what multi-tools like the Primens Soil Test run on?
The kit does not rely on chemicals or batteries like the products above. Instead, the Primens Soil Test uses solar energy. You will not have to pay attention to the battery, charge it, or make a solution when using the product.
The versatility of the Primens Soil Test Kit will help you comprehensively test the factors affecting the growth of plants, thereby making the correct changes.
Also, if you are looking for a compact, battery-free, easy-to-carry measuring device, Primens Soil Test Kit is one of the best choices.
Pros:
- Two-needle technology for high precision.
- There are three modes for measuring three important parameters.
- The display is good, with more color range to evaluate.
- Solar-powered, no batteries or chargers required.
- Quick measurement time.
Cons:
- Leaving the instrument’s probe in the ground for too long can affect the results.
5. XLUX Soil Moisture - Best For Moisture Testing
Via: Amazon.com
Feature Highlights
- Moisture meters.
- Color screen.
- 7-inch sensor probe.
- 18-month warranty.
As a grower, you’ve certainly encountered a situation where the top of the soil is wet, but the soil below is dry, not providing the necessary moisture for the roots.
Understanding your difficulty, XLUX Soil Moisture Meter is an effective tool to help you assess soil moisture.
Simply plug the sensor probe into the soil, and you’ll get moisture readings almost immediately. Whether you are testing indoors or outdoors, whether it’s clay or sandy soil, low or high conductivity, no single factor can affect measurement accuracy.
In addition, the display is also one of the reasons you should choose the XLUX Soil Moisture Meter. Because you won’t be disappointed with the exact numbers and scales, accompanied by a palette of high or low humidity ratings.
Compared to some of the soil test kits on the list, the XLUX Soil Moisture Meter is somewhat simple. But it is the focus on measuring humidity that is the most notable highlight of the machine.
XLUX Soil Moisture Meter will be the first choice if you love the simplicity and just need to check soil moisture.
Or if you don’t want to wait too long for your measurement results, the XLUX Soil Moisture Meter won’t cost you another minute.
Pros:
- Durable.
- Numbers on a large, easy-to-read display.
- Simple.
- Can give immediate results.
- Avoid damaging the roots as much as possible.
Cons:
- It cannot be used on very hard soil.
6. Dr.meter Soil Moisture Meter - Best For Budget
Via: Amazon.com
Feature Highlights
- Moisture meters.
- 7.7-inch probe.
- 10 scales.
Dr.meter Soil Moisture Meter is one of the cheapest soil test kits available today. However, it is not because of the low price that the quality is poor. You can completely get accurate results from Dr.meter Soil Moisture Meter.
This Meter has a smart probe and a 10-level scale display. This design is enough for you to conduct moisture measurements and get results back.
The steps to use Dr.meter Soil Moisture Meter are as simple as the device’s design.
You do not need to use batteries or electricity, nor do you need to compare the results received with external data to know the soil condition.
All you need to do is insert the probe into the soil and observe the results with the help of the color band on the screen.
Measuring soil moisture has never been so easy. And never before has a moisture meter been such a favorable price. If you are looking for both: simple and economical, choose Dr.meter Soil Moisture Meter.
Pros:
- Best Budget.
- Simple.
- No battery is required.
- High precision.
- The humidity scale is divided into three easy-to-observe levels.
Cons:
- No outstanding features.
7. Gouevn Soil Moisture Meter - Best For Big Pots
Via: Amazon.com
Feature Highlights
- Moisture meters.
- 7.7-inch probe.
- 2.02-inch screen.
The highlight of the Gouevn Soil Moisture Meter is the 7.7-inch long probe.
With such a length, you can measure moisture in the soil of a plant’s roots, regardless of the roots length or the plant’s location in the pot. Especially if you grow plants in large pots, this Soil Moisture Meter will be the best performing moisture tester.
In addition, Gouevn Soil Moisture Meter also impresses with its large digital display, helping you to read the results easily. The colors on the screen are also quite reasonable, divided into different levels to help you grasp the situation of the land.
Besides owning Gouevn Soil Moisture Meter, you also have detailed watering instructions for 200 crops.
If you are inexperienced in growing crops, the instructions on the packaging of Gouevn Soil Moisture Meter will give you more benefits than you think.
You won’t need to use your fingers to check the humidity, much less remember the last time you watered. Only with Gouevn Soil Moisture Meter can you limit the amount of water in the soil.
With a long probe, the product is extremely suitable when you grow plants in pots.
Pros:
- The probe part is quite long.
- Stable operation.
- Includes instructions for watering more than 200 types of plants.
- Make a judgment about the excess or lack of water in the soil.
- Do not use batteries.
Cons:
- For testing soil moisture only.
8. Alkey Soil Tester Kits - Best For Widely Applicable
Via: Amazon.com
Feature Highlights
- Measure moisture, light, pH.
- 10 graduation lines.
- Two-needle detection technology.
Alkey Soil Tester Kits are a versatile device that can give you accurate results on sunlight levels, pH, and soil moisture.
Therefore, with Alkey Soil Tester Kits, you can understand the acidity of your soil. At the same time, you can also know when to water the plants and learn the optimal level of sunlight for plant growth.
The versatility of Alkey Soil Tester Kits does not stop there. You can use the device for any soil environment. Grow plants indoors or in a greenhouse, garden, or potted plant. Alkey Soil Tester Kits can meet all your soil testing needs.
Versatile can be used for all types of soil is the greatest advantage of Alkey Soil Tester Kits. And only with this advantage, Alkey Soil Tester Kits has become a bright name in the list of best Soil Test Kits that you should consider.
Pros:
- There are many functions.
- Use for all soil environments.
- Accurate results with dual-needle detection technology.
- It only takes 5-10 minutes to get results.
- The screen has an additional assessment of the condition of the soil.
Cons:
- The screen is dark, difficult to see.
9. Apine Soil Moisture Meter - Best For Durability
Via: Amazon.com
Feature Highlights
- Moisture meters.
- Includes 1 x Soil Moisture Meter; 1 x Glasses cloth.
- Probe Length: 6.89 inches.
- Material: Aluminum.
The Apine Soil Moisture is one of the most durable gauges you can own.
Surely you will not be able to doubt the durability and corrosion resistance of aluminum. The Apine Soil Moisture Meter is made from aluminum, in addition, has undergone reinforcement. Therefore, the durability of the device will surprise you.
In addition to being a measuring device that can be used year after year, the Apine Soil Moisture Meter also makes you happy with its quickness in measuring. You only need to take 2-3 minutes to insert the probe into the soil, and the exact results are displayed on the screen.
Are you constantly looking for a new measuring device? You are not satisfied with the moisture meter because it takes too long to produce results? This Soil Moisture Meter will be the current top choice, solving both problems well.
Pros:
- Quick moisture measurement.
- Enduring.
- Easy to clean.
- Compact design.
- Do not use batteries or electricity.
Cons:
- Soil salinity can affect measurement results.
10. SURENSHY Soil Moisture Meter - Best 3 in 1 Meter
Via: Amazon.com
Feature Highlights
- Measure pH, light, humidity.
- Physical sensor.
- Metering range from 0 – 2,000 lumens.
- Measure the pH from 3.5 – 8.
SURENSHY Soil Moisture Meter is a 3-in-1 measuring device. With the push of a button, you can measure three different values: humidity, pH, and light.
The device’s two probes will operate at full capacity to give the most accurate results: One search will be used to measure the pH in the range of 3.5 – 8.0. The other end will measure humidity with 10 different ranges, ranging from dry, sufficiently humid, to excessively moist.
This Soil Moisture will measure light through the specially designed screen above. The light range that SURENSHY Soil Moisture Meter can measure is quite wide: from 0 – 2,000 LUX.
In short, this Moisture Meter meets most of your expectations in a soil measuring device: accurate, versatile, and easy to use. The only drawback mentioned above is that you can eliminate it by moistening the soil before testing.
Pros:
- Can test pH, humidity, light.
- Can measure light from 0 to 2,000 lumens.
- Can check soil condition up to 6 inches deep.
- The accuracy is quite high.
- Easily switch between functions.
Cons:
- Does not work well if the soil is too dry
Buying Guide For The Best Soil Test Kits
It’s never been easy to choose equipment, even if it’s a soil test kit. If the list of 10 best soil test kits above did not help you make your choice, refer to the guide to choosing soil test kits below.
Type of soil test kit
Currently, on the market, there are three main types of soil tests:
- Chemical testing: With a chemistry test kit, you’ll have reagents and a palette of colors to compare. When soil is mixed with reagents, a chemical reaction will cause a color change. You will obtain information about the pH as well as the nutrients of the soil with this method.
- Digital check: These devices are usually battery-operated or by physical touch. Usually, test kits will have a probe plugged into the ground then display the results on the screen. Digital test kits often give accurate results on soil moisture and pH.
- Laboratory testing service: You will take a soil sample and send it to a soil testing service center. This method does not give you immediate results. However, your accuracy and personalized advice are strengths worth considering.
1. Accuracy
It is difficult to determine the accuracy of soil measuring devices.
Usually, specialized laboratory measuring sets will provide the most accurate results. However, that does not mean that you do not have the same results when using the meters.
When selecting transducer measuring devices, make sure the probe is sufficiently sturdy and clean.
Besides, do not forget to limit the amount of salt in the soil as much as possible. Because some measuring devices are based on the assessment of the conductivity of the soil. Salt is the main cause of electricity in the soil.
Plus, you can limit errors by taking multiple measurements at different times. The final result is the average of the measurements.
2. Speed of results
Test the soil with the service of a top-notch laboratory in terms of accuracy. However, in periods to return results, this method certainly does not win high rankings. It may take several days for the laboratory to receive the soil sample and analyze it.
Meanwhile, home test kits can give you results in minutes. Even it only takes a few seconds for you to compare the color of the soil with the scale then conclude the pH.
3. Easy to use
A best soil test kit cannot be a complicated product for scientists only. Ease of use, easy-to-read results, and easy to conclude are factors to consider when buying a soil test kit.
Usually, chemical test kits are the easiest to use. You just need to compare the colors with an available table and determine whether the soil environment is acidic or basic.
Soil testers with probes are also not complicated. You simply plug the investigation into the ground, wait for a short while then read the results.
The complexity of using the device lies in a few general notes: Do not leave the device in the ground for too long, do not use it with too hard soil, and need to clean the probe regularly.
FAQs
Are digital soil testers accurate?
As mentioned, a digital soil tester is not the most accurate method of measurement. However, the accuracy of the results is enough for you to make the right land reclamation decisions.
If you want to improve the accuracy of your measurement, you can perform various sizes to optimize the results.
How to adjust soil pH?
Once you have taken the measurements and know the condition of the soil, you can use the alkalinity or acidity in your conclusions to adjust the pH.
Products pH UP and pH Down can change the pH of the soil quickly.
However, you can completely use safer organic substances to change the pH.
To lower the pH of your soil, you can use vinegar or coffee grounds. Meanwhile, lime powder, kitchen ash, eggshell can effectively increase the pH.
Do soil test kits have an expiration date?
If you use a soil test kit with pH strips and reagents, the answer is yes. Usually, these kits have a shelf life of several months. And especially, if you do not store it carefully, you will not be able to prolong the use of the kit.
Digital measuring devices will, of course, not expire. However, you need to pay attention to the battery life and avoid shocks to improve the tool’s life.
Conclusion
Your growing process will be difficult if you do not know exactly what the plant needs. And to eliminate those difficulties, nothing is wiser than investing in a soil test kit.
MySoil Soil Test Kit will not only give you the most accurate data on pH, nutrition. It is also a comprehensive solution to help you develop sustainably.
And Dr.meter Soil Moisture is the first choice if you are aiming for simplicity – savings – efficiency.
Meanwhile, with just one set of SURENSHY Soil Moisture Meter, you can both measure humidity, measure light, and measure pH. Each measurement gives results with high accuracy.
Hopefully, in the best soil test kits list above, you have found the product that makes you most satisfied.
