Does the pH of soil affect plant growth?
A soil’s pH is a measure of how acidic or basic it is. A soil that is basic is called alkaline. Alkaline soils are often referred to as sweet; acidic soils are referred to as sour. Soil pH is measured on a pH scale. The pH scale ranges from 1 to 14, with 7 being neutral, neither acid nor alkaline. Water, for example has a pH of 7. Acidic soils have a pH less than 7; the lower the number, the more acidic the soil. Alkaline soils have a pH above 7; the higher the number, the more alkaline the soil. Most plants prefer a neutral to slightly acidic soil, with a pH between 6 and 7, yet some plants prefer acidity whereas others grow best in alkaline soil. Potatoes, gardenias, and blueberries grow best in acidic soils. Geraniums, asparagus, and mint grow best at higher pH levels. The pH of the soil…
