Page 14 - Organic Gardening 3 Part Series

There are different types of subsoils:

hard clay, bedrock, stony material, and
even sand. There really isn't anything
you can do about your subsoil but it's
important to know what type of
drainage it provides.

A porous subsoil will allow roots to reach
down for nutrients, and during dry
weather, for water. If your subsoil is
compacted, then your best option is to
make raised beds. That way you can
increase drainage and the amount of

good soil available to your plants.

Is Your Soil Alkaline Or Is It Acidic?

Measuring your soil's pH level is important because most plants need soil which is
slightly acidic, in the 6.2 to 6.8 level. For reference, a pH of 7 is neutral, less is

acidic and anything above 7 is alkaline.

A laboratory test is ideal, but soil test kits are sold in most garden centers and

home improvement stores. The kit will quickly indicate your soil's pH by using a
simple color system. Acidic soil using turns the testing solution an orange-yellow,
neutral shows as green, and alkaline soil turns it dark green. If you have a local
Cooperative Extension Service, nearby, you can have your soil tested there. They
will also be able to tell you if your soil has any deficiencies and suggest ways to
improve it.