๐งช Soil Chemistry
Find out how much garden lime (to raise pH) or sulfur (to lower pH) you need to reach your target pH based on your soil type and area.
Related Calculators
Soil pH is a measure of acidity or alkalinity on a scale of 0โ14. A pH of 7 is neutral; below 7 is acidic, above 7 is alkaline. Most vegetables grow best between 6.0 and 7.0.
pH affects nutrient availability. Even if nutrients are present in the soil, plants can't absorb them if the pH is too far off. An incorrect pH is often the hidden cause of yellowing leaves and poor growth.
| Crop | Ideal pH |
|---|---|
| Most vegetables | 6.0โ7.0 |
| Tomatoes | 6.0โ6.8 |
| Potatoes | 5.0โ6.0 |
| Blueberries | 4.5โ5.5 |
| Brassicas (broccoli, cabbage) | 6.0โ7.5 |
| Onions, garlic | 6.0โ7.0 |
| Beans | 6.0โ7.0 |
| Strawberries | 5.5โ6.5 |
To raise pH (make less acidic): Add garden lime (calcium carbonate). Takes 3โ6 months to fully react. Best applied in fall.
To lower pH (make more acidic): Add elemental sulfur. Slow-acting โ takes several months. Or use acidifying fertilizers like ammonium sulfate for faster results.