How to Apply Aluminum Sulfate to Soil

Soil tests are every gardener's friend. Knowing the soil's pH and the nutrient level of your soil is vital to the success of your plants. Some plants, such as azaleas and blueberries, require acid soil. If you grow hydrangea and want to tinker with flower color, pH plays a big role. County cooperative extension offices offer free to low-cost soil testing to help you on your way to a successful garden. Aluminum sulfate, labeled "0-0-0" on packaging, is one of several products used to lower the soil's pH. Apply aluminum sulfate to the soil on a warm day when the soil temperature is at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

Things You'll Need

• Rototiller or shovel
• Rake
• Gardening fork

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Aerate the soil by rototilling it or using a shovel to dig up the top 6 inches. Turn the soil and crush it with the shovel. Rake the bed smooth.

   • 2

     Water the soil to a depth of 6 inches the day before you apply the aluminum sulfate. The soil does not need to be drenched, but it should be uniformly moist.

   • 3

     Add the required amount of aluminum sulfate to the soil, and mix it into the top 6 inches of soil. A gardening fork or rototiller works well for this task.