pH Level

The "potential of Hydrogen". The pH of soil is a measurement of the concentration of hydrogen ions.

pH is measured on a scale from 0 to 14 pH. This indicates whether the the soil is neutral, acidic, or alkaline. For example, soil with a pH of 7.0 is said to be neutral, soil with a pH below 7.0 is acidic, and soil with a pH above 7.0 is alkaline. Different plants require a certain pH for optimal growth, and plant color is sometimes subject to change at different pH. For instance, adding acid to the soil will make Nikko Blue Hydrangea "bluer".

To find out what the pH of you soil is, you need to have it tested. Contact your local county extention office for the kits that sell between $12.00 to $15.00. Inexpensive test kits are also available at garden centers and nurseries.