...e to assume that the soilchemistry is the same everywhere on your property, since themakeup of different patches of soil can be markedly different,due to past use, chemicals or residue in the ground, etc.It is a good idea to have a thorough soil analysis done prior toplanting a bed of flowers. Most major cities have severallaboratories that do soil testing, so be sure to contact such alab to have the soil analyzed for pH level, and for levels ofimportant plant nutrients. If you are unsure where to get thesoil tested, be sure to ask the staff at your local nursery orgarden center for a recommendation.After the present condition of the soil is known, you will be ina much better position to know how to amend the soil and makethe changes that are needed. Once you know the pH level, thelevel of organic material in the soil, the amount of clay,amount of sand, etc., you will be able to choose the rightadditives to provide your plants with what they need to thrive.The pH level of the soil can be ...

...a particularly critical factorwhen deciding what types of plants will work best. Mostvarieties of annuals, perennials and bulbs will grow well in awide range of soil pH, but some plants have specific needs, andprefer soils that are either very alkaline or very acidic. Ifyour pH range is outside the norm, or if it needs to be amended,there are a number of ways to accomplish this goal. Forinstance, limestone can be used to make acidic soil morealkaline, while sulfur is often used to make very alkaline soilmore acidic. A pH level that is out of balance can also behelped by adding humus. This rich soil can be created at home byusing a compost bin, or it can be purchased ready made from agarden center or nursery.After you know the baseline content of your flower bed, it willbe easier to track chemistry changes from year to year, and tomake amendments as needed. The more you know about the qualityof your soil, the more confident you can be that the plants youbuy will thrive in your home garden.