What is the recommended pH range for most garden soils?

The recommended pH range for most garden soils is typically between 6.0 and 7.0. This range is considered optimal for the majority of garden plants because it provides a balance that allows for the best nutrient availability and uptake by plants. A soil pH of around 6.5 is often cited as ideal, supporting the availability of essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, while minimizing the solubility of toxic metals and other issues that can arise in more acidic or alkaline soils.

Soils with a pH lower than 6.0 can lead to nutrient deficiencies, particularly in nitrogen and phosphorus, as these nutrients become less available to plants. On the other hand, soils with a pH above 7.0 may hinder the availability of micronutrients, such as iron and manganese, which can result in deficiencies and affect plant health and growth. Thus, maintaining a pH within the 6.0 to 7.0 range helps ensure that most common garden crops can thrive.