How to Lower Soil pH

Have you ever planted a new tree to find that after years of care it refuses to grow? You might simply need to lower your soil pH.

Most plants prefer a lower soil pH, usually around 6.5 for most everything.

pH levels generally run from 1 (very acidic) to 14 (very basic or alkali) Neutral is 7 which is what pure water registers.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Soil test kit

1. 
    
   Soil pH probe

   You'll need a soil testing kit. There are two basic kinds and both are relatively inexpensive (usually under $20) One is a capsule that will change the color of a soil & water mixture that is then viewed against a color coded chart. The other is a fully reusable probe with a simple to read meter at the top.

2. 
    
   Compost

   If you live in an area with heavy clay soils you likely will have basic or alkaline soil (pH around 7.5-8.5) To lower the pH add a generous amount of compost and organic matter before planting. Not only will this help the soil pH it will also breakup heavy clay soil.

3. 
    
   Sulfur pellets

   Another method and one that can work for an existing garden, plant or tree is to add sulfur pellets. They usually come in large 50 lb bags that would be enough to lower the pH of around 5000 sq ft of ground. A little can go a long way for an individual plant. Try adding a handful or a 1/4 cup of the pellets all around the base of the plant. The pellets breakdown quickly with water. It is not recommended that you use sulfur more than about twice per season as it can burn your plants if over applied.

Tips & Warnings

• Allow the sulfur pellets or the compost to breakdown around your plants for a few weeks before testing the pH again
• Read up on your plants, some thrive in an alkaline soil and will suffer if you lower the pH.
• Although most sulfur from a home and garden store is pretty safe use some common sense when handling it and storing it. Keep it away from pets and kids.