It can be difficult to determine if your soil needs amendments and if it does, to determine what to add. The simplest way to evaluate your soil is to conduct a PH test. Determining the PH of soil does not have to be a difficult process, there are kits for purchase on the internet and in local garden stores. It is also common to take a soil sample to a local garden supply center where the PH balance is determined for you. As for what to add to the soil, that depends on your needs. The PH level of the soil can dictate what types of plants will thrive; however, it is also very possible to change the PH of your soil to fit your specific purpose. More often than not when you test the PH level certain products will be advertised to adjust the level, but also remember your garden store professional is an excellent resource. You don’t need to buy expensive products though, there are some simple fixes for PH, for example if your soil’s PH is too high for your purposes, try sulfur; if your PH is too low, adding wood ashes can bring the PH up.