Ideal PH Level for Green Bean Seed Germination

Ideal pH Level

• Green beans need a soil pH range between 6.0 and 6.5, according to Iowa State University. Conduct a soil pH test before planting because green beans need slightly acidic soil. Soil pH measures the amount of hydrogen ions in the soil. When the range is outside of a plant's preferred range, seeds have a difficult time absorbing enough nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium needed for growth and root development. Test your soil right after the soil thaws for the growing season.

Soil Test

• Dig several 1- to 3-inch holes in the yard and collect a cup of soil from each hole, as suggested by Cornell University. Wait to test your soil's pH before fertilizing the garden area. Mix up all of the collected soil in a bucket. Send one cup of soil in a container to the local cooperative extension office. Wait up to three weeks for the results.

Amending the Soil

• Apply soil amendments as needed to alter the soil's pH the preferred range. Add lime to soil that is too acidic or less than 6.0. The amount of lime needed depends on your current pH. Soil pH between 5.0 and 5.5 requires 10 lbs. of lime per 100 square feet of garden soil. Spread the lime on the top of the garden bed, according to Cornell University. Add sulfur alkaline soil at a rate depending on your soil's pH. Spread 2/5 lb. of sulfur per 10 square feet if the soil's pH is 8.0, according to Iowa State University.

Green Bean Germination

• Green beans have difficulties germinating and growing in cold soil. Sow green beans in the spring or after the threat of frost have passed, according to the University of Illinois. Retest the soil's pH in three months to ensure the soil amendments are altering the soil pH. Increase seed germination by keeping the soil moist, but not saturated. Green bean seeds crack when exposed to wet soils.