When we talk about the essential care that each type of plant needs, it is not strange that we refer to the ideal pH level for the substrate. And this is a condition that can greatly influence the well-being of plant species. Therefore, if you want your plants to be even healthier, stronger and more beautiful, you will discover How to measure soil pH.
Furthermore, we are going to look a little more in depth at what pH is and what types exist, so that you understand well what we are talking about and the importance that this condition has for the development of your plants.
What is pH and what types exist?
pH is a measure that indicates the acidity or alkalinity of a substance or solution. When we talk about plants, pH refers to the degree of acidity or alkalinity that the substrate has. in which they live. It is rated on a scale from 0 to 7, and this allows us to talk about different types:
acidic pH. We say soil is acidic when the pH is below 7. Acidic soil is ideal for plants such as blueberries and azaleas.
Neutral pH. Neutrality occurs when it is equal to 7. It is a type of soil suitable for the vast majority of plants. In fact, almost all commercial substrates have a neutral level.
Alkaline or basic pH. In this case the pH is above 7. They are preferred by plants such as lavender and some herbs of Mediterranean origin.
How soil pH affects plants
If you have a plant to which you are giving all the basic care and you are not able to get it through, it is possible that the fault is in the substrate, and that this does not have the level of acidity or alkalinity that that species needs.
The pH level of the substrate influences plants in many ways, and these that we review are the most important:
Nutrient availability
Depending on the soil type, there will be more or less availability of certain nutrients. For example, Alkaline soils have less phosphorus, calcium and magnesium. On the contrary, in acidic soils iron and manganese become more soluble.
This means that a plant that requires acidic soils and that lives in an alkaline substrate, and vice versa, may have nutritional deficiencies that will affect its development.
Nutrient absorption
Even when the nutrients are there, the level of acidity or alkalinity of the soil can affect the plant's ability to absorb them. Again, this can make that plant that we like so much and that we care for so lovingly, never finish showing your best appearance.
Toxicity
In acidic soils there is usually a greater release of aluminum, while in alkaline soils soluble salts accumulate. In both cases it isor it may pose a toxicity problem for plant species that do not tolerate these substances well.
Microbial activity
The type and number of microorganisms in the soil, such as bacteria and fungi, also depend on pH. And we know that plants need their action so that they They are responsible for breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients.
In this way, if the soil is not suitable for it, the plant will have problems accessing the nutrients that are derived from the decomposition of organic matter.
Seed germination
Has it ever happened to you that you plant seeds and they don't grow? This may be due to the pH of the soil. If it is not suitable for the type of plant, the seed will not germinate.
Important pH Considerations for Plants
For the vast majority of plants, The ideal pH range is between 6.0 and 7.5, that is, between slightly acidic and slightly alkaline. Despite this, many respond well if they are in soil with a neutral pH, which is the most common when we use substrate of industrial origin.
However, it is important to assess the pH that our plants need in their substrate, because this will help us give them what they really need to grow and rejoice in its beauty.
How to measure soil pH
You can choose between two very simple alternatives:
pH Test Kit
You can find it in any gardening product store and it is very easy to use.. It involves impregnating the strips with a solution and placing them on the ground. Its color will change depending on the level of acidity or alkalinity detected.
Electronic pH meters
They will give you a much more accurate reading than the manual kit. They are devices with a probe that is inserted into the ground to make the measurement, and that show the results on a digital screen. Yes, for ensure good operation, You have to calibrate them periodically.
How to make soil more acidic?
If now that you know how to measure the pH of the soil you have verified that your substrate is too alkaline for your plants, You can add a higher degree of acidity by providing what are known as acid amendments, which are peat and peat moss. You can also add elemental sulfur or use acidic fertilizers, as well as incorporate bark and pine needles into the substrate.
In any case, keep in mind that soil acidification is a process that can take time. The change is not going to happen overnight.
How to make soil more alkaline?
In this case you can add substances such as ground limestone, wood ash, borax, agricultural lime or alkaline fertilizers to the soil.
Don't go overboard when adding these amendments. Add them little by little, Let them act and measure the pH to evaluate the results.
By knowing how to measure the pH of the soil and how to make adjustments to it, you can make your plants healthier and more beautiful than ever.