How to Change Soil pH
The term "pH" refers to the level of acidity or alkalinity in any solution. To grow successfully, garden plants require a specific soil pH. The pH scale runs from zero to 14. A pH of 7 is considered neutral. Soil with a pH less than 7 is classified as acidic, while soil with a pH greater than 7 is considered alkaline. Although there are a few exceptions, most garden plants grow best in soil with a pH of 6 to 7.5. If your soil pH is not optimum for plants, change it. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Test the soil to determine the current pH. Obtain soil samples from throughout the garden area. Use a soil test kit or soil pH meter to measure the pH of the soil samples.
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Plants have specific pH requirements. For example, blueberries and azaleas require an acidic soil with a pH of 5 to 5.5. Spinach, lettuce, squash and pumpkins prefer a soil pH of 6 to 7. Geraniums grow best in soil with a pH of 6 to 8. The soil test kits usually provide an extensive list of plants and their pH preferences. The Internet is also a good source for lists of plant pH requirements.
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If the soil is too acidic -- the plants require a pH of 7.5, but the soil has a pH of 5.5, for example -- add ground limestone to the soil to raise the pH. Mix the limestone into the moist garden soil two to three months before planting. Close to time of planting, add wood ash to raise pH.
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If the soil is too alkaline -- the plants require a pH of 6.5, but the soil tests 8.0, for example -- add either aluminum sulfate or ground rock sulfur to the soil. Aluminum sulfate changes the soil pH quickly and can be mixed with the garden soil days before planting. Mix sulfur into the moist garden soil several months before planting. At time of planting, add peat or sphagnum peat moss. Both are acidic and work well to lower pH.
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After adding the soil amendments, test the garden soil regularly and add amendments to maintain the necessary pH level.
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