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Step 1
Determine the plants, flowers or vegetables that will be planted in your garden. Some plants may be very sensitive to acid in the soil, and others thrive with a lower pH level.
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Step 2
Take a soil sample in the area you wish to plant. You make take your sample to a local garden center, or purchase a soil testing kit from the center.
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Step 3
Review the results of your soil sample. Once you've determined the acid level of the soil, you can make adjustments.
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Step 4
If you have a sandy soil, you will need to add 4 ounces of hydrated lime per square yard. This will increase your pH level by 1.0 on the scale, and lower the acidity.
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Step 5
If you have a loamy soil, you will need to add 8 ounces of hydrated lime per square yard. This will increase your pH level by 1.0 on the scale.
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Step 6
If you have clay soil, you will need to add 12 ounces of hydrated lime per square yard. This will increase your pH level by 1.0 on the scale, lowering the acidity.
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Step 7
If you have a peaty soil, you will need to add 25 ounces of hydrated lime per square yard. This will increase your pH level by 1.0 on the scale.
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Step 8
Adjustments to the soil should be made over a period of time and tested yearly to make the appropriate changes.
