Soil pH - What is it and What Does it Mean to Your Garden?
Every gardener has heard the phrase "Test your soil." Does it really matter? Yes and no. If your plants are growing well, your soil is probably fine. However, if your plants are struggling, a soil pH test is a good place to start looking for answers.
Soil pH
Soil pH tells you the alkalinity or acidity of soil. It's important to gardeners because plants can be very particular about their preferences for pH. Too alkaline or too acidic and your plants will suffer.
What is Acidic Soil?
Acidic or sour soil measures low on the pH scale. It's not good or bad, just a measurement, and it's useful to gardeners because many plants, like azaleas, will thrive in acid soil and other, like lilacs, will have a tough time.
What is Alkaline Soil?
Alkaline, sweet or chalky soil is at the higher end of the pH scale. Certain areas are prone to alkaline soil. Knowing if your soil is alkaline will help you choose plants and help those that are struggling.