The degree of the soil's acid or base state is known as pH. 7.0 is considered neutral. As you go above 7.0 it becomes more basic or alkaline. Below 7.0 becomes more acid.
Soil pH affects?
- The chemical reaction between plant roots and nutrients.
- The availability of nutrients in the soil for plant use.
- Soil applied herbicides.
- Microbial activity.
Improper application of nutrients many times result from the soil pH not being correct. Crops not yielding or plants not growing as expected? The answer must be .... ADD MORE FERTILIZER! A soil test is essential to determine soil pH and the right balance of nutrients that are needed. Generally, a soil pH of 6.8 is a target pH for the crops shown to the left.