What is Soil pH?
Soil pH refers to the level of acidity or alkalinity in the soil. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, where:
· pH 7 is neutral, meaning the soil is neither acidic nor alkaline.
· pH below 7 indicates acidic soil, which means it has more hydrogen ions.
· pH above 7 indicates alkaline soil, which has more hydroxide ions.
For lawns in our area, a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.0 to 7.0) is ideal. However, different soil types and areas can have different pH levels, which is why understanding your soil's pH in your lawn area, and correcting it if it is out of balance, is vital to creating the right growing conditions.
Why Soil pH Matters for Plants
-
Nutrient Availability
Soil pH affects the availability of essential nutrients to plants. Nutrient availability is at its best when the soil is near neutral. In highly acidic soils (pH below 5.5), nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and potassium become bound up in forms not available for uptake, which can result in nutrient deficiencies even if the soil is fertilized with these nutrients. On the other hand, in alkaline soils (pH above 7), micronutrients like iron, manganese, and zinc are less accessible for the same reasons. A proper pH balance ensures that plants can absorb the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
-
Microbial Activity
Soil pH also influences the activity of soil microbes. These tiny organisms break down organic matter and make nutrients available to plants. In overly acidic or alkaline soil, microbial life may be diminished, affecting the overall soil health. For instance, certain beneficial bacteria that help plants fix nitrogen prefer neutral pH levels, while others thrive in slightly acidic conditions.
-
Root Health and Growth
The pH level of the soil also impacts root health and development. In soils that are too acidic or alkaline, roots may struggle to absorb water and nutrients effectively. This can lead to poor growth, yellowing leaves, and stunted plants. Maintaining the right pH ensures that plant roots can expand and function properly, encouraging overall plant vitality.
-
Disease Resistance
Some plant diseases thrive in either acidic or alkaline environments. For example, certain fungal diseases prefer acidic soils, while others may be more common in alkaline conditions. Adjusting the soil pH to suit your plants can help reduce the risk of disease and improve plant resilience.
How to Test Soil pH
Testing your soil's pH is straightforward. There are several ways to do it:
· DIY Soil Test Kits: Available at garden stores, these kits allow you to test the pH of your soil at home.
· Digital pH Meters: These devices give you a more accurate reading and can be used repeatedly.
· Professional Soil Testing: When you sign up for a 5 step program your first soil test in included at no charge with corrective recommendations made based on the results. We prefer scientific recommendations based on scientific testing and not guesswork when it comes to aspects vital to the quality of your yard.
How to Adjust Soil pH
If your soil’s pH is too high or too low for the plants you want to grow, you can adjust it with the following methods:
- Lowering pH (Making soil more acidic):
- Adding sulfur: Elemental sulfur can help lower the pH of the soil over time.
- Adding organic matter: Compost and peat moss can help acidify the soil gradually.
- Using acidic fertilizers: Fertilizers with ammonium-based nitrogen can reduce soil pH.
- Raising pH (Making soil more alkaline):
- Adding lime: Ground limestone (calcium carbonate) is the most common way to raise soil pH.
- Incorporating organic matter: Compost made from alkaline materials like bone meal can slightly raise pH.
PH adjustments happen slowly, the chemical reactions in the soil can take months to occur.
Conclusion
Soil pH is a key element of turf health and productivity. By understanding your soil’s pH and managing it effectively, you can create the optimal growing environment for your lawn. So, test your soil, adjust the pH if necessary, and watch your landscape flourish!