Testing the PH of Your 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.





The strips can be gotten from 
CTi & Science Co., LTD.
E-mail; cti@cti.th.com
Web; www.cti.th.com


The strips cost ฿350/100, which is about $12 USD. 

Outdoor Grow House for Hydroponics...

Here in Thailand there is no reason to do indoor hydroponics because of a tropical climate. Growing outdoors using hydroponics requires protection from the rain (it will dilute the nutrient solution). Here's one answer to that problem;





The grow house is 2m W. X 3m L X 2m H. to the horizontal bars. The roof is plastic sheeting and the sides are a very fine netting; I don't think even a gnat can get through it.

As you may have noticed, I've added some new pages...

This is a work in progress. I will be adding more and more information as time goes on about growing C. chinense specifically (but will apply to most chilies) and places to get supplies for a successful venture. Because I'll be growing both hydroponically and in-the-dirt both subjects will be covered. I'm a few weeks from starting up my hydro system so for now I'll be primarily dealing with dirt. Good growing to all.