Sap pH

A measure of plant health. Early warning sign of pest or disease susceptibility. Sap pH of 6.4 is optimum. Variation from this indicates mineral deficiency, and in time, disease. Test can be combined with the Brix test.

For sap pH testing, you can decide whether you want to test the field more generally (under the W walk category), or repeatedly test a specific sample site over time (using the GPS feature to find the same sample location). Read more info here on how to do a W walk.

What to record


  • Sap pH value
  • Photos

Equipment


  • Sap pH Meter (Horiba B-711 LAQUAtwin Compact pH Meter)
  • Garlic press
  • Distilled water
  • Squeezy bottle (if poss)

How to do the test

1. Calibrate the device (see below)

2. Collect plant material, pretend you were a cow or sheep eating the grass (as with Brix test)

3. Place plant material into garlic press

4. Squeeze a couple of drops from garlic press onto the sensor, and close the lid

5. Press the “M” button, wait a few seconds, until “meas” stops flashing

6. Read value off screen

7. Record in app