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How to Test the pH of Foundry Sand

Knowing how to test the pH on your foundry sand can make the difference between a flourishing garden and dead flowers that will never grow. According to the Garden Helper website, different types of plants require varying degrees of acidity. Knowing how to test the pH and fix it, if needed, can help your landscape. You will need a soil testing kit, available at your local home improvement store, to calculate the pH.

Instructions

    • 1

      Place some foundry sand into the soil testing kit's test tube, then add a few drops of testing solution. Cap the tube, shake it, and allow the solution to rest and fully mix with the sand.

    • 2

      Wait about an hour for the solution to change color, then hold the tube up to the provided color palette. The color will reveal the pH of the foundry sand. If the pH value is lower than 7, the sand is acidic. If the pH value is higher than 7, the sand is basic.

    • 3

      Repeat the test to gain conclusive evidence of the pH value. Every scientist changes the experiment at least three times to ensure that the pH value is valid. You will need to wash the tube and add new sand and more drops of testing solution.