On the other hand, plants such as broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower grow best in soil that is more alkaline (or limey). 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). If you care about the health of your plants, you should be mindful of your soil's pH for a variety of reasons. A level of "0" indicates an extreme level of acidity, and a level of "14" indicates an extreme level of alkalinity.

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

A soil's natural pH level is measured on a scale of 0 14. 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. 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.

To a small degree, you can adjust your soil's pH level, but your.