Whats a good soil thermometer?

[TomatoDon]

I know there are lots of soil thermometers out there, and maybe a household one would work, but I'm wanting to see if any of you have found a good, yet inexpensive soil temp gauge that I can keep up with temps in natural soil, and different color containers to see how well container temps match with Mother Earth. And how much difference the color of the container makes.

Any suggestions?

Thanks!

Don

[elkwc36]

Don,
I just use a long stem thermometer like I use at work. Usually like a 0-100 degree F. That should put you in the mid range. Have checked them against the digital test thermometer I have and they are close. I feel this is close enough for my use. We use them to check temperatures of gas and liquids. They are an industrial thermometer and a little heavier grade than some household ones. They are built for outdoor use. If you want real accurate the digital thermometers with a probe work well. But way more expensive and measure in tenths. The one I use at work costs 2-3 hundred I think and I have it calibrated every year. But for my garden use don't feel I need that accurate. JMO. JD

[TomatoDon]

Yes, I was wanting the $5 special!

I guess most any of them would do. Maybe I can find a digital in the bargain bin somewhere.

Thanks for the input.

Don

[clspie]

here's a digital thermometer I purchased. checked it against a thermometer @ work and it was within 1 degree f. works for me. http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.11694