By Hank
Cheshire,
United Kingdom 
Soil testing - about time !
I've come to the conclusion that after 4 years of consistent failures with certain veg ( but great successes with others), that I should test the ph of the soil in my raised beds, then add what's needed.(lime etc.)
But I see I can buy a gadget to do this job for as little as £4-99 ! This one's from Amazon, but is it adequate ?
Recommendations gratefully received. And thanks for putting up with all my questions. You're very patient.
11 Sep, 2012
Answers
Thanks for the reply, S.G., i've had another lookat the Ph tester and it appears even I can master it !
And I'll look into your barium sulphate method.
12 Sep, 2012
these tests are ok so go ahead.
I use a basic ecology one where you add a small sample of soil to Barium sulphate powder. add a small amount of water shake well and add a universal ph indicator and allow to settle. if the colour is green its alkali if yellow orange its acidic. if its blue or red it is extreme alkali/acid and the soil is in a bad way.
11 Sep, 2012