Want a bumper crop?
Balancing soil pH is key.
Get ready to learn from the pros. Here are 12 expert tips to balance soil pH and boost your harvest.
Your garden will thank you! Let’s get started!
Test Your Soil First
Before you jump into balancing your soil pH, test it first. You can’t fix what you don’t understand!
Get a soil test kit from your local garden store or send a sample to a lab. This way, you’ll know exactly what your soil needs to reach that sweet spot of pH 6.0-7.0 for most plants.
Add Lime for Acidic Soil
If your soil pH is too low, or acidic, adding lime can help. There are different types of lime, like powdered or pelletized.
Follow the product instructions for the best results. Lime can take a few months to work, so be patient and maybe test your soil again in the spring.
Use Sulfur for Alkaline Soil
If your soil is too alkaline, go for elemental sulfur. Mixing sulfur into your soil can lower the pH.
This method is slower but effective. Just work it into the top 6 inches of soil and give it time.
Retest your soil after a few months to see how it’s doing.
Compost is Your Friend
Adding compost isn’t just about fertility; it also helps regulate pH levels. Plus, compost improves soil structure and water retention.
Just spread a layer of compost on your soil and mix it in. Do this regularly for the best results.
Consider Peat Moss
Peat moss is great for lowering soil pH. It’s also excellent for improving soil texture.
However, use it sparingly as it can be a bit expensive and is not the most sustainable option. Add it to your soil and mix it well for best results.
Use pH-Adjusting Fertilizers
Some fertilizers can help adjust your soil pH. Look for ones specifically labeled for either acidic or alkaline soils.
Follow the instructions and watch your plants thrive. It’s a two-in-one fix: feeding your plants and balancing the soil pH.
Gypsum for Heavy Clay
If you’ve got heavy clay soil, gypsum is your go-to. It helps break up the clay and balances the pH.
Just sprinkle gypsum over your soil and work it in. This will also improve drainage, which your plants will love.
Don’t Overwater
Believe it or not, overwatering can mess with your soil pH. Too much water can wash away essential nutrients, which can make your soil either too acidic or too alkaline.
Keep an eye on how much water your garden really needs.
Use Mulch Wisely
Organic mulches like pine needles or hardwood can affect soil pH. Pine needles, for example, can make soil more acidic over time.
Choose your mulch based on the current needs of your soil to help maintain that perfect balance.
Check Your Water Source
Your water source can impact soil pH too. Rainwater is usually more acidic, while tap water can be alkaline.
If you’re using tap water and struggling with high pH, consider collecting and using rainwater instead.
Rotate Your Crops
Certain crops can either deplete or enrich the soil in different ways. Rotating your crops ensures that your soil doesn’t become overly acidic or alkaline from planting the same thing over and over.
Diversity is key to happy soil!
Be Patient
Last but not least, be patient. Soil pH adjustments don’t happen overnight.
It takes time for amendments to fully integrate into the soil. Keep testing your soil and making adjustments as needed.
Your future harvests will thank you!