Soil pH and Vegetables

As I am using a 3 plot rotation systems for next year, I will need to get my soil pH roughly correct for the types of vegetables in in each section:

• Plot A = Potatoes and Parsnips
• Plot B = Brassicas
• Plot C = Peas, Beans, Onions and Squashes

Most plants prefer a pH between 6 and 7, as this range gives you the best access to nutrients and avoid any deficiencies and diseases.

Source: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/12/Soil-pH.svg/512px-Soil-pH.svg.png 

Crops and pH

• Plot A = Potatoes (5 to 6.5 pH) and Parsnips (6 pH) = so 5.5 to 6 pH
• Plot B = Brassicas, Swedes and Beetroot = 6.5 to 7.5 pH 
• Plot C = Peas (6 to 6.5 pH) , Beans (6 to 7 pH), Onions (6 to 7 pH) and Squashes (6 to 7 pH) = 6.5 pH
• Extra small plot for Sweetcorn (up by Runner Beans) = 6 to 7 pH

Next purchase = pH testing gadget

Worth noting:

• Chicken Manure Pellets are slightly alkaline
• Wood ash is alkaline
• Raspberries and fruit like acid soils

Links

• RHS Chicken Manure = http://apps.rhs.org.uk/advicesearch/profile.aspx?PID=297
• RHS Wood Ash = http://apps.rhs.org.uk/advicesearch/Profile.aspx?pid=621
• General pH Veg chart = http://www.thegardenhelper.com/soilPH.htm