What is a cheap AND accurate way to test soil pH?

Question

I'm trying to grow blueberries and I've added sulfur to the soil to acidify it but the bushes aren't growing so well. I think I may have added a little too much sulfur because although they are growing they don't look so hearty. They receive enough light and water. Also, how long should I expect to wait before I actually get some fruit? I planted them as sprouts.

Answer 1

Often your county extension will test soil for you.

Blueberries can be tough if your soil isn't acid.  They don't just like it acid - they like it REEEALLY acid.  Most plants  that "like acid" want 5.5 to 6.5 ph.  Blueberries want 4.0-4.5.  It's nuts.  And hard to make them happy if you have alkaline soil.

You might want to try raising them in large pots.  it's much easier to control ph in a pot, than try to change alkaline soil to acid.  The latter takes years of persistence and hard work.

Another option would be to raise serviceberries.  They are very close to blueberries in flavor, and do well in neutral soil.  Much less fussy plants.

Answer 2

there is not much you can really do to change your ph.  adding sulfer will do very little good.  I would suggest trying to grow your blueberries in a container.  as far as ph tests, there are cheap testing kits at Walmart or your local nursery.  they are capsules which you dissolve with water and soil.  I know there are other ph testers on the market which you stick in the soil and it gives you a reading.  Also you can send your soil off to get it tested for about $15.  Your local county extension office will have forms for this.