the majority of plants grow in the range 5.5-7.5: REOG
ornamentals tend to tolerate quite a wide pH range, although some (rhododendrons & heather) will grow only in more acid soils
vegetables prefer 6.5-7
fruit prefer 6-6.5
the range found in most soils is 4-8 REOG
Setting and maintaining the correct soil pH for your crops is one of the most overlooked factors for gardeners. Often tested and corrected in the beginning of the season, it changes as the season progresses.
even subsoil (down 2-3 feet) pH can limit root depth and therefore productivity
Calcium level of the soil controls pH; calcium can be washed out of the soil, making the soil more acidic REOG
pH Effects on Soil
Rate of chemical and biologic activity depends on pH (and other factors), which causes elements to be released from the solid phase into the soil solution, where they can be absorbed by plant roots
governs the availability of nutrients to plants REOG
has an effect on the diversity and activity of the soil life REOG
certain pests and diseases can be controlled by raising or lowering pH: REOG
soil pH less than 6.4 isn’t necessarily a result of too little lime or of too little calcium, but a result of the soil’s CEC holding too many hydrogen ions and not enough of the essential cations TIG
