Most gardeners have the task of improving their soil so it supports good plant growth, has water holding capacity, proper aeration,
good drainage and also supports soil-organism activity.
Yearly applications of manure, leaves, leaf mold, humus, peat moss or any other vegetable matter is a definite physical soil benefit,
and helps build up any soil. Other factors to improving your soil include the use of commercial fertilizers and lime.
Lime is a soil conditioner that helps soil bacteria become more active, aids the decomposition of soil particles, and helps bring your
soil to the proper condition for optimum plant growth.
Each plant has its proper degree of soil lime-content for best growth. Some plants need very little or no lime, others may need small or moderate
amounts, and still others may need large amounts of lime or sweet soils.
Soils that contain very little lime are called acid (sour); those which contain lots of lime are called alkaline (sweet). To determine the acidity of your
soil, you should have a pH test done. In these test, the hydrogen ions in the soil are measured and expressed in a number from 1-14.
A pH reading of 6.9 or lower is considered acid, a reading of pH 7.1 or higher is alkaline, and neutral soil has a reading of pH 7.
Lime Requirements - Flowers
