How to Balance Soil pH
Monitoring the pH balance of your soil helps to keep your plants growing. Many plant types thrive best in a slightly acidic soil, whereas others grow better in neutral or basic soils. Regular testing of your garden and lawn soil with a pH testing kit allows you to monitor your garden soil and adjust chemicals if necessary. The soil of your garden or lawn should be tested monthly using a soil pH testing kit. Use the results of the test to decide how best to treat your lawn. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Test the soil with your pH test kit according to the directions on the kit. Do not get chemicals on your skin or in your eyes.
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Know the difference between an acidic and a basic soil. A neutral pH reading is 7. Acidic soils register from 0 to 6. Basic soils register from 8 to 14.
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To increase the acidity of a soil that is too basic, or alkaline, add a lime or limestone mixture to your soil. Follow all directions on the package you use.
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To make a soil more basic, or alkaline, add compost or manure to it. Follow all directions on your compost package.
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Tips & Warnings
Test the pH of your soil several weeks before you plant in the spring to ensure that it is the correct acidity or alkalinity to help your plants grow. It takes some time for soil to react to pH changes. Test your soil again before you plant.
