Soil ph

Ivyhouse

Does anyone have an organic solution for lowering the ph of my veg plot ? My test kit is showing a reading of 8 and the suggestion on the packet is 'sulphur of ammonia' which sounds a bit strong.

Many thanks in anticipation.

artjak

When I did a soil test in my new garden 10 years ago, I used one of those little kits where you add water to a little tube of soil and some chemical. Thinking about it later I realised that I had also tested the ph of the water. I am no scientist so I can't answer this question. The result I got was a ph of 8. Everything grows fine except for the attacks of slugs etc. Everything I have read since says basically don't bother trying to change the ph too fundamentally; you are flogging a dead horse. Grow what works with that ph.

Dovefromabove

I did a soil test when we moved here - I used a similar kit to yours artjak - in the tiny small print in the instructions it said use rainwater 

sotongeoff

Adding compost,manure will lower it slowly but quite honestly it is a lot of hard work to maintain-I would work with what you have got

Dovefromabove

I wouldn't worry about a ph of 8 in a veg plot - it'll help prevent clubroot in your brassicas.  

Just adding well rotted compost year on year will gradually lower the ph but as I said, I wouldn't try to change it radically.  There's no need.

RHS says http://apps.rhs.org.uk/advicesearch/profile.aspx?pid=239 

Dovefromabove

Geoff .... Snap! 

Leggi

Many fruit bushes actually prefer a slightly acidic soil. The advice to not try to alter it too much is good advice, just keep adding organic matter whenever you get a chance. Over time you'll find out what and where things grow best for you.

nutcutlet

I'm not a veg grower but I'm a great believer in going with what you've got

Ivyhouse

Thank you everyone for your swift replies. I will go with your advice and contine to keep adding from my compost bin and see what happens.