[Ma Lowe]

We tested the soil today in the parts that have had no manure and the PH reading was 6.8. I am assuming that this is good after reading that 7 is neutral. Is that correct??

[Aunt Sally]

As a general guide Ma a pH reading between 6.5 to 7.5 is fine.

[solway cropper]

Aunt Sally's right of course, but it does depend on what you want to grow as some fruit/veg have quite specific requirements.

Out of interest did you use one of the liquid test kits or one of those probe things. I bought one of the probes then found out some are not very accurate. I stuck it into a bag of moist compost in several places and got readings between 6.5 and 8 so you need to take several readings across an area and take an average.

[Aunt Sally]

Good advice there solway cropper. 

The individual needs of the plant always needs to be considered.  Brassicas need limed soil to help to inhibit club root and some fruit like blueberries need a very acidic soil.  A fairly neutral starting point is the easiest place to start off.

[Ma Lowe]

Thank you both.  I have  noted the adding of lime for brassicas and will make sure that each individual veg has the nutrients it needs. Hopefully I will get some mega veg next year then lol