Sorry, MaxC. I saw where Cindy had posted this, and didn't look at the name to see WHO said it.
>> My 5 yo potted Meyer has gone into decline ...
>> what is the easiest, most reliable way of checking ph anyway? and when you test it, should the soil be removed and mixed with water beforehand?
I would follow the instructions on the specific pH test kit, but I have read about adding a little distilled water to a soil sample taken from several spots and depths, and mixed well. If they don't mention using distilled water, consider using distilled water.
However, I'm skeptical of the kits I've seen marketed. Don;t we care about a few tenths of a pH point? How many kits are that accurate?
The easy way is to pay for a soil test done in a lab! They can also tell you about all the deficiencies or excesses the soil has.
In my signature block, this will locate local co-operative programs right near you:
Coop Extension Finder
http://nifa.usda.gov/partners-...
Scroll down and find the "Type" pull-down.
Select "Extension" and then your state.
They ought to suggest a local soil-testing lab .
Or, since you'll probably mail in your sample anyway, maybe someone on this thread knows of a good CHEAP soil-testing service.