How to Check a Lawn's PH Level

Dig under the soil surface to obtain a sample. Make a small hole with a garden shovel. Grass roots do not grow far below the surface, so a sample of the soil two or three inches below ground level is what you will need to test. Avoid touching the soil sample since your hands have a pH value and, since you are using a small sample, the pH of your hands could affect the pH of the soil.

Drop the soil into the testing chamber of a pH test kit. These kits vary with regard to how much soil is necessary for a sample. Check the instructions so you do not add too much or too little. Typically, just a spoonful or so is needed.

Add the prescribed amount of water the kits calls for, then close up the container and shake vigorously to mix the soil and water.

Wait for the suspended solution to settle and change color.

Compare the color of the water and soil suspension to the color chart that comes with your kit to determine the pH of your soil.