If the soil has a neutral pH or even one in the alkaline range, this is a very bad basis for the growth of some plants. That can never be good in the long run. However, they do not necessarily have to clear their place, because the garden soil can be made acidic afterwards.

Some plants prefer acidic soil

determine the pH value

The appearance and growth behavior of a plant can be clear signals that the soil is not acidic enough. However, you can only be absolutely sure if you determine the pH value of the soil.

Peat - a disused remedy

Peat soil lowers the pH of the soil. That is why it was often used in the past when it came to making the garden soil acidic. In the meantime, ecological awareness has grown, which is why the destruction of the moors is no longer accepted.

alternatives

The pH of the garden soil can also be lowered with the following means, which are available to us cheaply or even free of charge and are also easy to use. That's them:

  • coniferous earth
  • special compost
  • Special mulching material
  • grape pomace
  • iron sulphate and sulphur

coniferous earth

Soil under conifers has a low pH. If you only want to acidify a small area of garden soil, you can take off some of the coniferous soil and mix it with the soil.

special compost

There are special types of compost, the composition of which consists of acid-forming plant materials. A pure oak leaf compost also provides plenty of acid.

Notice:
Refrain from using vinegar, even if this tip is repeatedly touted as promising. Its success is short-lived and it harms soil organisms along the way.

Special mulching material

In particular, mulching with a mixture of crushed softwood and oak leaves should be mentioned here. The approximately 5 cm thick layer is additionally enriched with an organic fertilizer. Horn shavings are ideal for this.

tips

The mixture of coffee grounds and horn shavings also makes the garden soil acidic. Since coffee grounds are not available in unlimited quantities, this mixture is only suitable for small areas.

grape pomace

If you live in a wine-growing area, try to get your hands on grape pomace. These are pressed grape residues that accumulate during wine production. The natural grape acid it contains makes the soil acidic and at the same time is gentle on the microorganisms of the garden soil.

iron sulphate and sulphur

Both substances are suitable for compacted soils. But while the sulfur takes effect quickly, the iron sulphate takes many months. It should therefore be deployed in the pre-season.

Category:

Garden design