You may need to add oyster shells to your garden soil to increase the pH levels.
Oyster shells, which are pure calcium carbonate, work well as a soil amendment because they increase pH levels by adding lime and making the soil drain better. Increased pH sweetens bitter soil, making it more hospitable for plant growth. Look for crushed oyster shells at your home center or nursery; ask for assistance if you have problems locating it. Often, other products such as gypsum contain oyster shells.
Instructions
1. Prepare the soil with a tiller to work together the soil layers and prepare the area for planting.
2. Test your soil with a soil test kit to determine the soil's pH. Depending upon what you want to grow in the soil, you may need to add amendments to make the soil better suited for your plants.
3. Work the oyster shells into the top 4 to 6 inches of soil with a rake. Use between 4 to 6 lbs. of oyster shell for every 100 square feet of soil, or follow manufacturer's instructions. Keep in mind that lime only changes the pH where it is exposed to the soil because it is insoluble in water.
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