For example, the type and level of a soil's nutrients available for plants to absorb are directly related to the soil's pH level. A pH scale is a system for testing levels of acidity and alkalinity.

Strawberries, for instance, flourish best in soil that is relatively acidic (ericaceous). A soil that is considered "neutral" would be a soil with a measurement of "7." Most garden soil has a pH level between pH4 and pH8.5. On the other hand, plants such as broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower grow best in soil that is more alkaline (or limey). A level of "0" indicates an extreme level of acidity, and a level of "14" indicates an extreme level of alkalinity. If you care about the health of your plants, you should be mindful of your soil's pH for a variety of reasons. Some plants, however, are exceptions. Obviously, then, you should know your soil's pH level before you select plants for your allotment to ensure the best. A soil's natural pH level is measured on a scale of 0 14.

Most plants thrive best in a soil that is neutral (pH =7).