Garden Help
Diagnose plant problems and treat garden pests


Get Gardening Help!

Home /

Soil Doctor


There are several tests you must do to find out the type of soil you have. Use each one to learn more about your soil and what you can grow in it.

The Walkover Test:


For the walkover test you will need to go out onto the soil when it is moist and the plants are actively growing. (Not mid-winter)

The Hand Test:


For the hand test you will need to pick up a handful of soil from the area you wish to learn about. Make sure to wash your hand thoroughly when you have finished.

The pH Test:


To perfom an accurate pH Test Click Here

To learn what type of plants will grow in different pH soils Click Here


Latest Gardening & Horticultural Careers


Explore Gardens from Around the World


Majorelle Garden
Marrakesh, Morocco

Medellin Botanical Garden
Medellin, Columbia

Nongnooch Tropical Garden
Pattaya, Thailand

Saint Petersburg Botanical Garden
Saint Petersburg, Russia

Pukekura Park
New Plymouth, New Zealand



Watch a Video!

How do I protect my tulips from squirrels and other pests?
How do I protect my tulips from squirrels and other pests?
Five Essential Tips for Growing Lemons
Five Essential Tips for Growing Lemons
Cultivating Melons
Cultivating Melons
How do I prune lavender?
How do I prune lavender?
When is the best time to prune my bottle brush plant?
When is the best time to prune my bottle brush plant?
How do I insulate my greenhouse?
How do I insulate my greenhouse?