Do you know your garden soil pH level? If not, you should get a soil test before planning your landscape design. Some plants just do not thrive in your garden despite your best efforts.
Photo credit: tlr3automaton
As gardeners, we don’t need to know the scientific details of soil pH. Just understand that pH is measured on a scale of 1-14, with acidic soil (pH below 7.0) or alkaline soil (pH above 7.0), and neutral soil at 7.0.
We should have this information on hand as plants can absorb certain nutrients only when the pH is suitable. Adding more fertilizers is futile if the problem lies in the soil pH.
Most garden plants prefer a neutral pH between 6.2 to 7.0. Some plants are more sensitive to pH; for example, lilacs and clematis thrive in alkaline soils while rhododendrons and blueberries prefer lower pH.
Generally speaking, if your plants are growing healthily, your garden soil pH is ok. But if the plants cannot thrive, it is worth doing a soil test.
There are many types of soil pH testers available. The Luster Leaf 1818 Rapitest Mini 4-in-1 Soil Tester
One method is to add lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it in different parts of your landscape. The amount to add depends on your soil test result.
However, don’t think of lime or sulfur as a quick fix. It can take months to register a change in the soil pH and you will need to periodically test your soil to ensure the pH maintains at optimal level.
Sometimes, it is easier to plan your landscape design in such a way that the plants suit your soil pH.
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