How to Increase Soil's Alkaline Level

Understand the terms. pH is used to measure the level of acidity or alkalinity in soil from 0 to 14 with 7 being right in the middle and neutral. If you go above 7 the soil is said to be basic or alkaline while below 7 is acidic. Different nutrients are available to the plants as the acidity changes. Most plants prefer to be in the mid range, while others like azaleas or blueberries like it more acidic.

Take a soil test. You can do this several ways. Take a sample of dirt to your local garden center and ask them to test it for you. Purchase a soil testing kit and follow the directions. Purchase pH strips from an aquarium shop. Mix soil with equal parts of distilled water and stir well. Let the dirt settle and apply the water to the strip. Compare it to the color code on the bottle for the level of alkalinity. If your soil is under 6.5, then you will want to bring the alkalinity level up to around 7 by adding amendments to the soil.

Add chemical amendments lime to your soil. This is usually done with the addition of water, but you should follow the directions on the package. It may take several applications during the year to bring up the level to the right range. Other additions are wood ash which can be sprinkled over your yard. It reacts quickly as it is mainly calcium carbonate.

Use compost to balance the acidity of your garden. Mushroom compost, if you can get it is highly alkaline. Yard waste and kitchen garbage composted together will make a nutritious and slightly alkaline environment for your plants.

Keep all pine needles raked up out of your yard as well as oak leaves and birch leaves. They tend to be a little more acidic than other trees. They can be composted and used later when they have broken down.