introduction
Before we look at acidic soils, we must first understand the concept of soil acidity.
Generally, a logarithmic scale called pH is used to measure the acidity of different substances.
The pH covers a range of 15 numbers from 0 to 14, and the lower the number of this index, the more acidic the substance is.
Numbers higher than seven indicate an essential or anti-acidic substance. The number seven itself can be an average value, indicating that the substance is impartial.
Most soils have a pH that is close to seven in terms of the corrosiveness of the soil. If the pH value of the soil is below 6.5, the soil is considered acidic.
The pH value of the soil has a direct or indirect effect on plant growth. The most important role of soil pH is to control the solubility of nutrients in the soil. In other words, the ability to absorb nutrients is highly dependent on the pH of the soil.
Nutrients are differently soluble at different pH values. Each plant tolerates a specific and suitable pH range. If the pH value of the soil is too low or too high, the growth and development of the plant becomes problematic. However, most plants grow well in a pH range between 8.5 and 5.7.
What naturally raises pH in soil?
1. The carbonic acid formed from carbon dioxide and water leads to soil acidification in areas with high levels of precipitation.
2. Acidic soils have a high proportion of pressure and aluminum oxides, as they are the slowest minerals in the soil. Aluminum is very soluble in these acidic soils and combines with water to form abundant hydrogen particles (corrosiveness).
3. The main material of the soil (or the types of minerals that make up the soil) can be a source of soil acidity.
4. Nitrification
Ammonium fertilizers produce hydrogen ions or acids.
5. Acid rain contains nitric acid and sulphuric acid.
6. The added elemental sulfur is oxidized to sulphuric acid.
7. The plants absorb the necessary cations from the soil and thus extract them.
8. The plant roots excrete hydrogen ions into the soil instead of nutrients.
How can you increase the pH value of acidic soil?
Factors that influence the pH value of the soil
Various factors can influence the pH value of the soil. Here are some examples:
1. Rain: Rain can increase the corrosiveness of the soil. Although rain is neutral in itself, when it falls from the sky onto the ground, it retains numerous substances in the environment. As a result, the soil is acidic in regions where it rains a lot.
2. Some plants: The cultivation of certain plants, such as beans, not only affects the nitrogen content of the soil but also leads to soil acidification.
3. Improper fertilization: Adding the wrong fertilizer or the wrong amount of fertilizer will cause a change in soil pH. If you fertilize the soil carelessly, you can destroy the soil.
4. Poor irrigation: Runoff and improper irrigation are also factors that not only destroy the soil structure and leach out brain matter, but also change the pH of the soil.
How does soil acidification affect plant growth?
Aluminum can dissolve in certain types of soil and become harmful to plants if the pH value is below 5. The acidity of the soil can affect how well plants can absorb the nutrients they need. The pH can change the structure of the soil, especially in clay soils.
Symptoms of soil acidification
- The performance of the product is reduced
- The root of the plant becomes weak
- Stop root growth
- Growth of acid-resistant weeds (e.g. fenugreek and geranium).
- Increase in the incidence of disease
- Abnormal leaf color
- A soil pH test is required to confirm a problem with soil acidity.
Effects of soil acidification
Plants grow best in soils with a pH of 5. 5 to 8. This is also the best range for nutrients and microbes in the soil. Acidic soils normally prevent the roots from absorbing water and food. As the soil becomes more acidic:
- aluminum toxicity
- Toxicity of manganese Toxicity of iron
- Calcium deficiency
- Magnesium deficiency
- Molybdenum deficiency
- Very slow organic decomposition
- The availability of calcium and phosphorus decreases.
conclusion
soil acidity plays a crucial role in plant health and growth, with pH levels directly impacting nutrient availability and plant development. Factors such as rainfall, plant cultivation, fertilization, and irrigation practices can influence soil acidity, leading to potential issues like aluminum toxicity and nutrient deficiencies.
Regular soil pH testing is essential for identifying acidity problems and implementing necessary corrective actions. By addressing soil acidity effectively, gardeners can create optimal conditions for healthy plant growth and vibrant gardens.
