The pH (hydrogen ion concentration) value of your soil is important to know. If the value is too low or too high, your plants may have problems absorbing nutrients from the soil. A value of 7 is neutral. Below 7 is acidic and above 7 is alkaline. A desirable range is between 6.5 and 7.5. Optimal for most garden plants is between 6.5 and 7.0.
Adding sulfur to your soil will lower your pH. Fertilizers like ammonium sulfate have a high concentration of sulfur. Lime can be used to raise the pH level.
Easy to use pH soil testing kits are found at most garden shops and online. It is a good idea to check your soil about once a year.