Soil Thermometer Is Not Calibrated Correctly

Question From: E. Ecker - Maine, United States
Q: I have a Luster Leaf 1618 Rapitest Soil Thermometer. I notice that when it is placed in a room it reads 10 degrees lower than my other thermometer. Why is this? It makes me distrust the accuracy of what I'm reading when it is in the soil.

A: To test the thermometer stick it in boiling water for a minute. Water boils at 212 degrees F. Warm the thermometer in a glass of very warm water first so the glass does not shatter. Adjust your reading accordingly. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy