Alkaline soil is referred to by some gardeners as “sweet soil.” The pH level of alkaline soil is above 7, and it usually contains a great deal of sodium, calcium, and magnesium. Because alkaline soil is less soluble than acidic or neutral soil, availability of nutrients is often limited.

Organic Matter or Compost is usually the most effective treatment. This will help acidify the Alkaline Soil lowering the pH levels by enhancing the dissolved Calcium in the water. The organic matter is being decomposed by beneficial microbes this releases CO2 which then forms Carbon Acid.

Soils may be alkaline due to over-liming acidic soils. Also, alkaline irrigation waters may cause soil alkalinity and this is treatable, but alkaline soils are primarily caused by a calcium carbonate-rich parent material weathering (developing) in an arid or dry environment.

This is another case of using a little science to confuse gardeners. Baking soda is alkaline and adding it to soil will reduce the acidity of soil.

add sulphur to the soil to reduce pH and make the soil more acidic. add garden lime or dolomite lime to the soil to increase pH and make the soil more alkaline.

Apply garlic juice to the soil of plants that are infested with mites or aphids. Make a solution from the juice of two garlic cloves, one teaspoon isopropyl alcohol and 3 quarts water. Spray the solution directly on the soil surface several times a day until the pests are controlled.

It is preferable to squeeze fresh lemon juice. Mix with water in a 2:3 ratio. Fill a spray bottle and spray the entire affected plants with the solution.

If you see ants, wipe them up with a solution of 50-50 vinegar and water, or straight vinegar. White vinegar kills ants and also repels them. Ants can smell the vinegar after it dries, but the scent doesn’t remain discernible for long to most people.

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