The pH level of your soil might be sabotaging your chances for healthy plants. You can also get additional benefits from getting a combination meter. The combo meters also measure the soil moisture level which is very beneficial for indoor plants that need more care.

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Current Best Selling pH Testers

#	Preview	Product	Price
1		SONKIR Soil pH Meter, MS02 3-in-1 Soil Moisture/Light/pH Tester Gardening Tool Kits for Plant Care,...	$9.99 $8.99	View on Amazon*
2		Garden Tutor Soil pH Test Kit (3.5-9 Range) | 100 Soil pH Tester Strips - Test Soil Acidity and...	$12.98	View on Amazon*
3		AiGerdinn Soil Test Kit, 2-in-1 Soil Moisture Meter, Soil pH Meter -Dual Dial-Simultaneously-Display...	$13.99	View on Amazon*
4		4-in-1 Soil Moisture Meter, Soil pH Tester with Digital Plant Temperature, Light, Soil Moisture, pH...	$19.98	View on Amazon*
5		Soil Moisture Meter,4-in-1 Soil Ph Meter, Soil Tester for Moisture, Light,Nutrients, pH,Soil Ph Test...	$29.99 $13.58	View on Amazon*

*Price from:  2024-04-02 at 20:35 EST

*Price from:  2024-04-03 at 01:15 EST

What’s a Good pH Number?

The pH of a soil is shown by a numbered scale which goes from 1 to 14. Any number below 7 is known as acidic soil. Anything above 7 means your soil is alkaline. The Goldilocks zone, which is the pH that is just right for most plants, goes from 6.2 to 7.2. Although there are some plants that do better with strongly acidic or strongly alkaline soil, the majority of plants will be best served by a slightly acidic to neutral soil indicated by the pH of 6.2 to 7.2.

When to Test

You can test your soil at any time during the year. If you have a lot of plants you’ll be putting in during the spring or fall, you may want to test the soil before then. If your soil isn’t the right pH, you’ll have time to take corrective measures before you plant.

What Kinds of Testers Are Available?

Soil pH testers come in three different types. There are pH test strips, chemical colored dyes and meters.

Test strips can be tricky if you aren’t good at distinguishing subtle shades of color. The colored dye testers also require you to use a color chart to determine the pH level. Color matching is easier than detecting shade differences but not as easy as reading a meter. The meters use a probe that you stick into the soil. You can then read the results of a numbered gauge on the unit.

Many testers combine pH testing with moisture testing and some also add a light meter. Generally, a light meter will be of little use. Plants generally are classified as wanting Full Sun, Partial Sun, Diffused Sun, etc. and you can tell that with common sense.

It is highly recommended that you get a tester that also includes a moisture meter especially if you have indoor plants! Many casual indoor gardeners kill plants by either over-watering or (less likely) under-watering. A simple and fairly inexpensive meter can take the guesswork out of it.

If you have a special plant that you want to monitor for moisture, then look for a meter that you can leave in the plant. Some even have alarms, but I have not found any to recommend in that category.

Top 3 Best Soil pH Tester Reviews

1. Atree 3-in-1 Soil Moisture, Light and PH Meter 

Atree Soil pH Meter, 3-in-1 Soil Tester Kits with Moisture,Light and PH Test for Garden, Farm, Lawn, Indoor & Outdoor (No Battery Needed)

• 3-IN-1 FUNCTIONS: You can measure soil moisture, pH value and sunlight intensity. It's helpful for you to plant flowers, plants and make them grow healthy and strong(This soil tester CAN ONLY be used in soil, it CANNOT be used to test any liquids)
• EASY TO USE: Simply insert the probes into the soil about 4-6 inches (2/3 of the probes), and you'll get your reading
• COMPACT FOR INDOOR & OUTDOOR USE: Know when to water, adjust pH, or change lighting for your flowers, plants both indoor and outdoor
• NO BATTERY NEEDED: No batteries or electricity needed, plug and read
• SCIENTIFICALLY ACCURATE: Sensitive probe could sense changes of the soil and transfer details to the conductor, displaying the accurate values for you

$8.99

View on Amazon*

*Price from:  2024-04-02 at 21:49 EST

This 2-in-1 tester measures both moisture and pH levels in the soil. It’s simple to operate. You just insert the probe about two to four inches deep in the dirt you want to test and let the meter do all the work. In just minutes, you’ll have a reading. When you’re done, just take the probe out of the dirt. Wipe it clean and store it somewhere until you need it again.

It doesn’t use batteries so you don’t have the added expense of replacing those every few months like you would with electronic meters.

Because it is so small and easy to use, it is great for either indoor or outdoor plants. It gives a scientifically accurate reading so you’ll know when it’s time for you to adjust the pH balance of your soil to keep your plants healthy and strong.

It’s definitely the best soil pH tester on our list! Let's get it NOW! 

2. Sonkir Soil pH Meter 3-in-1 Moisture/Light/pH 

Currently on Sale

SONKIR Soil pH Meter, MS02 3-in-1 Soil Moisture/Light/pH Tester Gardening Tool Kits for Plant Care, Great for Garden, Lawn, Farm, Indoor & Outdoor Use (Green)

• Kindly NOTE: This soil tester can not be applied to test pH value of any other liquid. If the soil is too dry the indicator will not move, and water it before testing.
• 3 METERS IN ONE: Soil moisture level, Soil pH value and Sunlight level could be tested easily according to your need by switching the function button of this soil meter.
• NO BATTERY NEEDED: Simply insert the meter into soil, wait few minutes, accurate test results will be displayed on the readout panel. No battery is needed.
• STURDY AND SCIENTIFIC DESIGN: Reliable materials and upgraded technology used for this soil meter make it advanced and high-quality for long-term use.
• MULTIPURPOSE SOIL TEST KIT: Portable and compact design enables you to use this soil meter for house garden, farm, lawn and any other soil & plant analysis. Ideal for indoor and outdoor use.

$9.99 −10% $8.99

View on Amazon*

*Price from:  2024-04-02 at 20:35 EST

This meter will measure the pH in the soil, and it will also moisture and light. It provides troubleshooting for plant growth. If your plants are having problems with withering leaves or slow growth, this unit may help get them back on track.

It’s portable and compact, which means you’ll be able to easily carry it around to any test site. It has a big display that won’t leave you squinting and scratching your head while trying to interpret the numbers on your meter. Show me this one! 

3. TOPINCN Soil Meter pH Level Tester 

TOPINCN Soil Meter pH Level Tester Gauge for Plants Garden Lawn Farm Crops Flowers Vegetable Soil Test Gardening Tool No Battery Needed

View on Amazon*

*Price from:  2024-04-02 at 21:49 EST

This meter features a big display and separate wand, making reading much easier. Just hold the display in your hand and insert the wand into the soil. This design also allows easy multi-spot testing.

This is a bit more rugged than some of the other units you will find, but still not overly expensive. It is only a single function tester, just testing for pH. If you need moisture as well, then look at a different device. Yes! I want it! 

The post 5 Best Soil pH Testers 2021 appeared first on Garden Consumers.

Finding the right garden sprayer can be confusing with so many different options on the market. That’s where we come. Use our handy guide to help you find the best garden sprayer to meet your individual gardening needs.

Always Remember:

• Always clean your sprayer thoroughly after every use. Residual chemicals left in the sprayer can corrode or degrade parts.
• Store your garden sprayer and all chemicals safely away from children.
• Always use a separate sprayer for separate chemicals. Traces of herbicide are often absorbed in the garden sprayer even if you’ve cleaned it thoroughly. You should clearly label your sprayer “Herbicide Only” and use a different sprayer for fertilizer and plant food to protect your plants.

We are a professional reader-supported review site. You get our best product recommendations and we can receive small commissions from our affiliates at no cost to you. Win-Win!!

How to Choose a Garden Sprayer

There are several types of garden sprayers available on the market. Each has its own set of pros and cons. Knowing how each type works will help you pick out the best garden sprayer to use on your plants and flowers.

Compression Sprayer

This type of garden sprayer has a tank that holds the pre-mixed products. A pump is used to create pressure in the tank which forces your product through the nozzle and out onto the area of your garden you want to treat. Compression sprayers are very portable and easy to use in tight places. Another advantage is the fine mist that these sprayers generate which minimizes chemical run-off.

Hand Pump Sprayer

Extremely easy to use, these garden sprayers are just like the hand triggered bottles that most household cleaners come in. The beauty of this type of sprayer is that they are easy to use and incredibly portable. However, if you have a large area that needs to be treated, it can be very time consuming and leave you with a cramped hand.

Hose-End Sprayer

Applied right to the end of your garden hose, these garden sprayers mix water with your garden product as it passes through the application nozzle. Most of these sprayers adjust for different dilution rates making them incredibly versatile. They are lightweight, generally inexpensive, and use your hose’s water pressure allowing for long-distance application. However, gardening products tend to be applied in larger liquid droplets with this type of sprayer, which causes beading and run-off. In the long run, this may require that you use more product.

Ready-To-Use Hose-End Sprayer

This type of sprayer comes attached to a container of pre-mixed product. Since you don’t have to add any garden product manually, they are quite convenient. Perfectly calibrated for the packaged product, all you do is attach it to your garden hose and you’re ready to go.

Top 3 Best Garden Sprayer Reviews

1. Smith Performance Compression Sprayer 

This professional-grade sprayer is built from quality components to stand up to harsh agricultural products and rugged use. This one is made to last, so you’ll be using it year after year.

Currently on Sale

Smith Performance Sprayers R200 2-Gallon Compression Sprayer for Pros Applying Weed Killers, Insecticides, and Fertilizers

• Professional grade sprayer and components built to withstand harsh agricultural chemicals along with rugged transport and use
• Durable, 21 inch stainless steel wand with exclusive poly lining and the highest quality Viton seals for maximum chemical resistance
• Highly efficient pump requires 25% fewer pumps per gallon than leading competitor
• In-line, easy-to-access filter has more surface area than leading competitors which reduces clogging and minimizes cleaning
• Faster, easier repair - pump seals can be changed within minutes without tools, which equals less downtime

$59.99 −20% $48.20

View on Amazon*

*Price from:  2024-04-01 at 14:31 EST

It comes with a durable 21-inch stainless steel application wand to extend your reach. You won’t have to stretch or bend to apply your garden product with this sprayer, and since the Smith Performance R200 Compressions Sprayer is highly efficient and requires less pumping than most other compressions sprayers, your gardening chores won’t tire you out.

Multiple interchangeable nozzles are included so it can meet all your product application needs. It comes with an adjustable brass wide flat fan, narrow flat fan, and a foaming nozzle. The pump seals and gaskets are easy to change without any tools. It is so easy to use and maintain, that you’ll wonder how you ever managed your garden without it. Let's get it NOW! 

2. Scotts 190567 Battery Powered Sprayer 

If you liked the previous product but didn’t like the idea of purchasing a manual compression sprayer, then this one is just up your alley.

Scotts 190567 Lithium-Ion Battery Powered Pump Zero Technology Sprayer, 2-Gallon, White/black

• No more pumping.
• Rechargeable lithium-ion power. Sprays up to 12 full tanks per charge.
• Premium, commercial grade shut-off with comfortable grip; lock-on feature; and easy-to-clean, in-line filter
• 21-inch poly wand with Viton seals in shut-off for long-term resistance to chemicals
• Pressure release valve allows you to safely remove internal pressure prior to opening the sprayer

$94.57

View on Amazon*

*Price from:  2024-04-02 at 15:09 EST

It features a rechargeable lithium ion battery that can get you through 12 tanks of liquid on a single charge. The nozzle offers you three different spray options, including fan, stream and cone.

Scotts really designed a fine little machine, here, and we doubt that you would disagree. If you don’t need to spray large areas and you want something quick and handy, try this sprayer. I'm sold, let's get it! 

3. Solo One-Hand Pressure Sprayer 

The best feature of this garden sprayer is the adjustable telescoping wand. The wand extends from 12 to 23 inches to get in those hard-to-reach places. It also makes for an easy ground-level product application that won’t strain your back since you won’t have to crouch or bend. It also has a multi-directional nozzle so you can spray from any position.

Solo 419 2-Liter One-Hand Pressure Sprayer, Ergonomic Grip

• CHEMICAL-RESISTANT VITON SEALS for outstanding resistance to harsh chemicals.
• MULTI-DIRECTIONAL NOZZLE for spraying from all positions and UNIQUE DRIFT GUARD for added control on spot treatment
• LOCKING TRIGGER for reduced user fatigue
• PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE prevents excess pressure
• 9.5-IN METAL WAND provides added reach

$27.37

View on Amazon*

*Price from:  2024-04-02 at 15:09 EST

You’ll also be impressed by the quality construction and high-density, UV resistant polyethylene tank. It’s chemical-resistant, but also rugged. Intended for rough outdoor chores, this sprayer is anything but delicate.

There are a lot of little details in this sprayer that will make your life easier. And the only thing you’ll love more than the Solo Pressure Sprayer is the price. Yes! I want it! 

The post Best Garden Sprayers 2021 appeared first on Garden Consumers.

In this handy guide, we go over some of the highest-performing compost bins available. Included on this list are all the major types of composters, include tumbling and stationary bins. If you’re looking for the best compost bin, you’ve come to the right place.

Things to Consider

The most convenient way to compost is to keep both a small bin in your kitchen, which is only about a gallon or so (which will allow you to keep several days’ worth of scraps, before dumping them into your composter), in conjunction with a larger bin. Generally, composters are designed for outdoor use, with a few notable exceptions, such as worm composters, which are great for efficient indoor composting.

The two main types of composters are stationary (or “continuous”) and tumbling. Both are available in a variety of sizes. If you have a big family, or want to generate more compost, look for a larger composter.

• Stationary Bins. Stationary bins, which can be enclosed or open, are generally larger and also easiest to use – just toss in your scraps and yard waste, and wait to collect the compost from the bin.
• Tumbling Bins. While stationary bins can take a long time to generate compost, tumbling bins (enclosed, elevated containers that have a mechanism or handle for rotating the entire load of compost) are great for speeding up the process. Because these require a bit more work, and produce batches, they are better for gardeners who don’t mind slightly more planning. Other composter types include stackable bins, such as worm towers.

We are a professional reader-supported review site. You get our best product recommendations and we can receive small commissions from our affiliates at no cost to you. Win-Win!!

Buying Information

In the list above, there are examples of every main composter type. To choose the best compost bin for your household, you need to consider size, type, and ease-of-use. Composters can also differ in the following ways:

• Covered Versus Uncovered (Stationary Bins). Uncovered bins are the easiest to use. A drawback, however, is that small animals, such as rodents, can easily find their way in. Covered composters remove this problem.
• Single Versus Multiple Chambers (Tumblers). Tumble composters produce compost in batches. Some models have two chambers, which allows you to “time” to separate batches.

Top 3 Best Compost Bin Reviews

1. Top Rated Epica Stainless Steel Compost 

Currently on Sale

EPICA Countertop Compost Bin Kitchen | 1.3 Gallon | Odorless Composting Bin with Carbon Filters | Indoor Compost Bin with Lid | Stainless Steel Kitchen Composter for Food Scraps & Waste Recycling

• FEATURED IN BON APPETIT & FORBES: Recognized by renowned magazines, EPICA’s compost bin is a perfectly sized marvel for your kitchen, compact yet spacious enough to hold days' worth of compostable organic waste. Measures 7.16" in diameter x 11" high.
• CONTROL KITCHEN ODORS NATURALLY: EPICA's compost bin with an airtight lid and replaceable activated-charcoal filter can eliminate unpleasant odors in your kitchen naturally and conveniently.
• EASY TO CLEAN & RESISTANT TO LEAKS: Our one-piece molded counter compost bin with lid, resists rust and leaks, making it easy to clean and maintain. Say goodbye to welded bins that deteriorate over time.
• BUILT TO LAST A LIFETIME: Made of high-grade stainless steel, EPICA's counter top compost bin for kitchen is durable, scratch resistant, and won't leach toxic chemicals into your compost.
• REPLACEABLE CHARCOAL FILTER FOR ODORLESS COMPOSTING: EPICA's specially designed activated-charcoal filter is essential for an odorless indoor compost bin. With proper handling, the filter lasts over six months.

$39.95 −27% $28.99

View on Amazon*

*Price from:  2024-04-02 at 20:35 EST

The Epica Stainless Steel 1.3 Gallon Compost Bin is the highest-rated compost bin in our list, perfect for using indoors in conjunction with a larger (indoor or outdoor) bin. The majority of users give it a five-star rating, and we agree that it’s one of the top options out there for getting started with composting. An essential product, both in terms of its convenience and size, it’s the best compost bin.

Made of elegant, and durable, rust-resistant stainless steel, the Epica bin has a replaceable, easy-to-clean charcoal filter and an airtight lid to lock in odors. This is a countertop composting bin, so it does need to be used together with a larger bin, where the bulk of the composting will happen. This sleek steel container is large enough to hold scraps for several days, reducing the number of trips you need to make outdoors. Right at home in any kitchen, it’s perfect for everyday composting of kitchen and meal scraps. Let's get it NOW! 

2. FCMP Outdoor Tumbling Composter, 37 gallon 

FMCP Outdoor, a North American company, makes a nice large, 37 gallons, tumbling bin. This outdoor composting bin is made of durable, food-safe, and BPA-free materials. We find that its discrete design, black color, and huge size ensure that this tumbler is a winner.

Currently on Sale

FCMP Outdoor IM4000 Dual Chamber Tumbling Composter Canadian-Made, 100% Recycled Resin - Outdoor Rotating Compost Tumbler Bin for Garden, Kitchen, and Yard Waste, Black (37 Gallon)

• Made in Canada from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic - The original 8-sided dual chamber tumbling composter.
• TUMBLING COMPOSTER – Avoid digging and mixing your compost pile by hand. The tumbling design makes mixing easy and efficient. Just close the door and turn it 5-6 times every 2-3 days. In hot sunny conditions and with a proper balance of ingredients the compost can finish in as little as 2 weeks.
• EASY TO USE – Fantastic for beginners! The large openings and removable door make it easy to add scraps/clippings and remove finished compost. Deep fins on the body provide great ergonomic handholds.
• TWO COMPOSTER CHAMBERS ARE BETTER THAN ONE – Two separate sides allow the first side to finish while leaving the second side available to add fresh scraps/clippings. Continuously swapping sides after finishing will create an uninterrupted flow of rich, healthy compost.
• EXCELLENT AERATION – All our composter models feature aeration holes as well as deep fins to break up clumps inside the chamber and mix lots of oxygen into the compost. Tumbling composters allow far greater aeration than standard models.

$99.95 −20% $79.97

View on Amazon*

*Price from:  2024-04-02 at 20:35 EST

It’s easy to use and rotate, and it comes ready to use – no assembly required. With 2 composting chambers, you can stagger your composting to always have healthy compost ready for use. Just alternate the side that you add your new materials into. I’d suggest a 2-3 week cycle if the bin can be placed in direct sunlight. It will work that quick.

For best results, rotate the bin once or twice a week. The large openings makes it easy to load and unload the compost. This bin has lots of holes for proper aeration and deep fins that break up and mix the compost on rotation.

If you’re looking for a tumbling composter bin that is easy to use and has big capacity, this is one of the most popular. The heavy-duty octagonal bin weighs in at 28 pounds so you know it is made tough. I'm sold, let's get it! 

3. Worm Factory 360 WF360B Worm Composter 

The Worm Factory 360 is one of the best options for indoor composting. The durable four-layer tower can be expanded vertically to include up to eight additional layers; it’s the perfect size for small households of up to four people.

Worm Factory® 360 Black US Made Composting System for Recycling Food Waste at Home

• US made with durable high quality plastic. Houses thousands of worms that can consume several pounds of waste each week. Compact and expandable.
• The Worm Factory 360 has a standard 4-Tray size which is expandable up to 6 trays when following the directions, giving it the largest volume of any home vermicomposter.
• Each tray has a grid bottom for worms to migrate upward as new food is added. As each tray is filled another is added to the top, when the bottom tray is harvested it becomes the top creating a continuous loop system.
• The worms will process food waste into fine compost full of nutrients. Worms can eat about half their weight in food per day. If you start with 1/2 lb of worms they can eat a 1/4 lb of food per day. Gradually increase as the size of your community grows.
• 5 year limited warranty. Odor free operation. Create compost year-round indoors.

$134.95

View on Amazon*

*Price from:  2024-04-02 at 20:35 EST

Worm composters are unique because they allow you to efficiently compost indoors, without odors, even if you live in an apartment. Requiring live red wiggler worms (not regular earthworms), the Worm Factory is best kept in relatively mild temperatures, and it can also be used outdoors. It’s worth noting that certain items can’t be composted this way, including meat, citrus, and onions.

This system also allows you to easily collect both compost tea and worm castings, which are great natural fertilizers. The Worm Factory 360 allows you to harvest compost after approximately three months, and it can be used year-round. Its unique design and features make it one of our top choices for the best composter. Yes! I want it! 

The post Best Compost Bins 2021 appeared first on Garden Consumers.