Healthy soil and sustainable growing

["TradingPostPaul" <tradingpost@riseup.net>]

Brix is intriguing but, to me, a complicated concept. True, the
refractometer is simple and inexpensive, but what Brix indicates still
confuses me. In general I believe high brix is a sign of denser nutritional
value in produce. And grocery produce is supposed to be lower brix than
organically grown, esp certain heirlooms. We knew something was wrong with
tasteless veggies.  More info on this is welcome. Actually, needed. 

paul, tradingpost@riseup.net

*********** REPLY SEPARATOR  ***********

On 6/25/2006 at 8:06 AM Ryan Albinger wrote:

>I have seen the soil testing kits advertised for sale.  I am rather
>certain
>they could work when used correctly.  
>Personally, I have decided to just use a commercial lab with proven
>methods, trained personnel, and recommendations on the results.  For
>myself, there is too much to risk for trying to save a couple dollars for
a
>soil test that determines my fertility management program.  Also, I don't
>want to maintain an unnecessary inventory of supplies and reagents that
>have a limited shelf life.
>A refractometer is probably a good tool to have yourself.  Gives you a
Brix
>level- ballpark measure on the quality and health of your plants.  Dr.
>Carey Reams did work on Brix levels and associated health of plant and
>human.  Using pH measure and Brix can clue you in on your plants
>nutritional level and the nutrients which it is having trouble accessing.
>Ryan
>
>
>> [Original Message]
>> From: Bobby G <bobbyg53211@yahoo.com>
>>
>> ...don't know if this has been asked and answered
>> already.  would anyone have a recommendation for
>> low-cost soil testing "kits" that would be worth
>> buying for DIY soil testing?  or is it just better to
>> submit to County Extension or whatever testing
>> agencies are in the local area?
>>
>> bobby g
>> Wisconsin
>>
>
>
>
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