Knowledgebase
Soil grade #757370
Asked June 21, 2021, 12:31 AM EDT
Wayne County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello Laura
The soil pH can vary even over a small area.
To determine soil pH, a soil test is performed for the exact location in question.
MSU Soil lab can perform a complete soil test for pH, organic matter and phosphorus, potassium, magnesium. The results look at what you are growing( lawn, trees, vegs or flowers) and recommend an exact amount of fertilizer or pH adjustment for that plant.
Or the Soil lab can perform a pH only test for you.
See the lab website for fees, sample submission instructions, and mailing information-
https://www.canr.msu.edu/spnl/
There are pH test kits available at garden centers but the are typically accurate only within one full point( i.e. 6, 7,or 8) which isn’t accurate enough when trying to adjust pH for blueberries, red maples, hydrangeas, etc.