Soil Testingwith pH and EC Pens How to use this equipment and
interpret the results, without breaking the bank. A number of
inexpensive pen-like instruments are available that can be used
in the greenhouse to determine growth medium pH and soluble
salts. The cost of the individual pH and electrical conductivity
(EC) "pens" ranges from $50-80, and a combination pH/EC pen
costs about $120. Pens are available from most greenhouse,
agricultural and forestry supply houses. Proper use of these
instruments provides accurate pH and EC measurements, which a
grower can use to make immediate crop management decisions or to
seek further in-depth testing by a commercial soil test lab.
Supplies style='font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"55 Helvetica
Roman"'> In addition to the pens, you will need the following
items to take care of the pens and do pH and EC (soluble salts)
tests. Many of the items can be obtained for free or
inexpensively from home or the grocery store. Of course, more
expensive, professional supplies can be pur