What are some of the plants that grow in our area and require acid soil?
Require is the key word. In addition to all the plants that prefer it slightly acid, there are a few that require acid. Azaleas, rhododendrons, blueberries and pin oaks all require acid soils. Probably the most common plants in the landscape that prefer it are river birch, gray birch, magnolias, hydrangeas, serviceberries, spruce, pines, mountain ash, Clethra and holly. (Whitespire birch would like it slightly acid too, but they are more tolerant of higher pH.) There are also perennials that prefer acid soil. Some of the more common perennials that prefer acid soils are ferns, most woodland plants, lupines, garden lilies, “butterfly weed” (Asclepias incarnata) and primroses. If you aren’t sure what pH your plants prefer, ask one of our horticulturists. Should the soil be acidified before the plants are put in? Whenever possible, this is the best way to start. But even if the soil pH is adjusted before planting, it will need to be monitored and may need acidifying on a yearly basis. Wha
