Read the question about soil testing, and Russ' response. I'd like some more "specific" recommendations, if that is allowed about pH testing equipment or kits.

I'd also like to hear opinions about how important pH is in regards to use of some of the popular organics these days, e.g., Marx said emphatically that his Pt was of no value in high pH soils like we have here in Central Texas, yet now, suddenly PHC says its great for our soils. Also, humic acid is supposed to be great for soils and roots. Yet the pH of most humate formulations, liquid or dry is between 8 and 9. Can this be harmful when your soil pH is already 8 plus?

Reply to post by Guy LeBlanc, on March 21, 2000 at 23:29:57:

After trying various measuring methods and devices over 25 years, the ones I think work best for field use are the wet electrode testers. These are battery powered with digital readout. You make a solution of the soil and (distilled) water, dip the electrode in, wait about a minute to get the reading. The prices start at about US$50. Many of the supply houses carry the various brands. They must be calibrated occasionally, and they do have a limited lifespan (newer versions I see now have replaceable electrodes). Compared to others I have tried, these are 1) easy to use 2) quick 3) reasonably accurate 4) won't break the bank.

Re: Mycorrhizae- Marx was working at the time with just Pisolithus tinctorum (Pt), which apparently has some pH preferrences. The PHC product has several species of Mycorr-forming fungi. Suggest you contact them directly for more information.

Reply to post by Russ Carlson, on March 21, 2000 at 23:29:57:

Russ:

Thanks for the info. It will be helpful.

Would love to hear more dialog re: ph and mycorrhizae.

Guy LeBlanc