We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more› By Colleen Hagerty Colleen Hagerty is a writer focused on emergency preparedness.

If you want your plants to grow big and healthy, soil quality matters. Even if you aren’t planning on growing a lush veggie garden, all plants need nutrients to grow, in addition to light and water.

Testing garden soil is the best way to determine what it needs—if anything—and how much. A variety of soil testing kits are available, but how reliable are they? Home gardeners rely on these kits when ...