Luster Leaf Rapitest Soil Tester 1609CS

The test is quite accurate but expensive. Capsules dont last much (disintegrates if not used for couple of months) in Indian hot climatic conditions.

LIMITED

Worked very well!

Based on my location and my own perception of my soil, I was expecting High Alkaline PH and low Nitrogen based on my grass(Bermuda) growth/health. I had no idea what to expect on Phosphorous and Potash. Overall this test confirmed what I thought, and I’m glad I did it. As for ease of use, it’s not super easy but I didn’t find it as difficult as other users. I was able to dig up my yard, 4” deep. I put a sample in a paper bowl and broke it down as small as possible. For the PH it specifically states in the instructions it’s best to use distilled water. I would highly recommend this. I do PH on my tap water for my fish tank And I know my tap water is also highly alkaline so to keep water quality out of the test use distilled water. As for the other 3 tests you have to make a 5:1 mixture water to soil and shake it up real good, then let the particulates settle out. I let mine settle for 2 hours. It says 30 mins-24 hours in the instructions. As far as the complaints about the capsules, I will confirm they aren’t super easy to open. I used a non-serated steak knife to slit open the outer side and it opened right up and I was able to pour it pretty easy. All said and done my kitchen counter looks like a lab experiment was going on. Bottomline: fast results, not too hard, very happy I did it. I’ll make some soil amendments and check again with the other pills.

This will work for you, IF you understand the products limitations and don't need scientifically accurate numbers. Our yard is rough, so I wanted an idea of how to start treating it - starting with getting the soil up to par. I ordered this because I didn't want to spend $25+ dollars and wait who knows how long to get an idea of where to start (it's already Spring so time is something I don't have a lot of if I want to seed soon). The kit was easy to use and directions are clear (they are DIFFERENT for the pH test, so make sure you read well). I used scissors to cut each pill of powder open which worked well. Colors were true to the chart. To do a base test to ensure the powders would show different colors, with the left overs I tried lime juice for the pH test and some Miracle Grow soil for the others. Sure enough, I got different readings for each one than my soil gave me (the pH actually came out more of a pink/bright orange than the chart color though). Bottom line, if you want true numbers of nutrients in your soil, or own a business that depends on results, this probably isn't right for you. Are you an average homeowner just looking for an idea of how to more appropriately care for your lawn? This may be a good option for under $7.

Results appear to be accurate and easy to follow, clear instructions.