It is important for gardeners to know the pH of the soil they are working with, because most plants require a particular pH range for optimal growth. pH stands for "potential hydrogen ions" and is a measure of the soil's acidity (low pH) or alkalinity (high pH). Alkaline is generally found in dry climates, or in soil that contains a great deal of clay. Alkaline soil is relatively easy to correct organically without the need to resort to chemical fertilizers.
Instructions
1. Know the pH of the soil you are planting. pH test kits are usually available from Department of Agriculture county extension offices and some gardening centers. Using the directions on the kit, determine if your soil is alkaline.
2. Add compost to the soil. Compost is decomposed plant material that is rich in organic matter and soil nutrients. Compost lowers soil pH.
3. Add peat moss to the soil. Peat is very acidic and lowers soil pH.
4. Plant a crop of winter wheat or rye over your garden area, especially in vegetable garden spots. Till it under before spring planting. Crops used this way are called "green manure" and greatly enrich the soil.
5. Mix in animal manure to the soil but only after it has decomposed completely. Fresh manure will burn the plants. Manure can be spread on top of a garden area in the fall and then tilled under in the spring, or it can sit in a compost pile to decompose for a full gardening season before being added safely to the soil.
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