Testing the PH of Soil using Litmus Strips...

Today I tested the PH (potential hydrogen) of my potting soil using litmus strips. Here's how I did it;
I took about ½ cup, of the potting soil I use, out of the bag and put it in a bowl. I poured about 1 cup of distilled water (PH neutral; 7) into the dirt and mixed it thoroughly and let it sit/soak for 1 hour. I then poured the water through a screened funnel (to get as much dirt out as possible) and into a glass. Using Merck universal indicator strips (litmus paper), I wetted the strip, and checked against the color chart. The green color was the only one that didn’t quite match; it was darker than the “5” but lighter than the “6”. Close enough for government work. So now I know it’s about 5.5 to 6.0 which is ideal.
This is a picture of the Merck ph indicator strips;

Welcome to my blog...

     This is a work in progress and specifically deals with Capsicum chinense; I've been a gardener for 40 years and started growing my favorite Capsicum, Habaneros, last year. This has proved to be my greatest growing challenge ever; partly because I live in rural Thailand and one has to adapt and be creative due to the lack of ready resources and, a less than ideal soil.
     I'm growing in dirt and hydroponically, so I'll be covering both disciplines. As time goes on I'll be expanding the range of Capsicum chinense varieties because they offer the greatest heat and unique flavors, IMO. I cover Habaneros and Jalapenos on my other blog; Growing Habaneros and Jalapenos in Thailand.
     FYI, the three pods in my blog header picture are from a Costa Rica Red Habanero I am presently growing.

Cheers...