What is and How to Measure the pH of the Earth?
Knowing the pH gives us information very important on the crop.
For example, most of the nutrients a plant needs for stable growth are found in a neutral pH range.
However, the pH required in an orchard depends on the type of plants, but in general it is not recommended to maintain values below 4 and above 9.
What is soil pH?
The pH of the earth is a value that indicates the degree of acidity or alkalinity of a solution; in this case the ground. Speaking in scientific terms, it is a measure that shows the relationship between the hydrogen ions present in the soil and their concentration in it.
pH scaleIt is divided into 14 values, being from 0 to 7 acid and from 7 to 14 an alkaline substance. The neutral value of this range is 7.
When pH values are 7.5 there may be problems with the availability of iron. This lack is reflected in the leaves, especially the younger ones.
They usually have yellowish spots that start at the top of the plant and cover the entire leaf. Likewise, growth is delayed and the leaves can burn.
If the pH is very basic, the possible absorption of phosphorus and in general of most micronutrients is blocked.
The approximate pH of different crops
Here we leave a list to know the pH that the soil of our garden should have depending on the fruits and vegetables that we want to plant.
- Broccoli: 6.0-7.4
- Onion: 6.0-7.3
- Cauliflower: 6.0-7.3
- Pepper: 6.3-7.9
- Tomato: 5.7-7.3
- Carrot: 5.7-7.2
- Lettuces: 5.8-7.3
- Strawberries: 5.0-6.3
- Eggplant: 5.5-6.2
- Radish: 6.2-7.5
- Cucumber: 5.6-7.1
- Corn: 5.5-6.7
- Peas: 5.9-7.2
- Spinach: 6.2-7.3
- Chard: 6.0-7.4
- Potato: 5.0-5.8
- Rice: 5.1-6.6
- Lentil: 5.1-7.2
What happens if there is a lack of phosphorus?
Phosphorus deficiency can be identified early on because the leaves turn yellow around the edges.
If the problem persists the leaves will die and fall off starting at the bottom. Likewise, it will not develop properly and the root system will be very deficient.
On the other hand, if the values are below 5.7, the soil may present little microbiotic activity.
This is very important because it is found in organic matter and helps maintain the soil structure, as well as retain the necessary water without flooding and acts as a nutritional reserve for plants.
What does a very acidic pH imply?
If the pH is very acidicwill be deficient in bases such as calcium, potassium and magnesium.
The activity of microorganisms is also reduced, as well as phosphorus.
Micronutrients, except molybdenum, are better absorbed in this type of soil, but they are not recommended due to the deficiency of other nutrients.
Potassium deficiency is related to yellow leaves on the margins and later brown. At this point the leaves shrink and die.
Subsequently, spots appear on the stems and the leaves of the lower level do not grow. Potassium deficiency is a serious problem as it increases the chances that the plant will contract diseases and pests.
What happens if there is a lack of magnesium?
lack of magnesiumit can be identified because while the veins remain green, the center of the plant turns yellowish.
The lower leaves wrinkle and if time has passed the problem spreads to the other leaves of the plant.
The leaves also show very little growth and if several days have passed, they can suddenly present dead zones. In addition, the flowering stops or they lack good coloration.
What happens with the lack of calcium?
Calcium deficiency is identified when the tips of the leaves and the upper part of the plant die. There is also suffering from the roots, almost all of them dying.
In general, the plant is very dull.
How is soil pH measured?
There are someWays to measure soil pH.
To know more: How to change the pH of the soil?
We will explain two that may be the most accessible:
- The least complicated is to measure with a pH meter. This is a device that measures the pH range of aqueous solutions. Therefore, you have to take a sample of the soil (other than the surface part).
- Next, you need to remove the leaves and twigs. You dilute it with a little water and then proceed to measure with the device.
- In approximately 60 seconds it will release the pH value of the solution.
- Make sure that before inserting the pH meter into the mud it is clean so as not to avoid errors in the measurement.
- The second way is with pH test strips.
- You can get these at a pharmacy or chemical store.
- Similarly, take a small sample of soil and mix it well with water until it is completely dissolved. Then dip a band-aid for approximately 40 seconds.
- Remove it and let it dry. Finally, compare the coloring with the diagram that comes in the package.
How to raise the pH of the soil?
If the pH is low you need to add a base.
The most common is lime. You can find it in household products. It is preferable that it be pulverized so that it can be spread throughout the pot and that the soil can easily absorb it.
Ash from burned plants or trees is also a viable option for raising pH levels.
Be careful not to add too much as you could have problems with the alkalinity of the soil in the future. Be careful not to put it near the roots and shoots.
How to lower the pH of the soil?
To lower the pH of the soil, it is recommended that you add aluminum sulfate for immediate effects, however, try to add it in moderation since the level of acidity in the soil can skyrocket.
Another method that takes several months but is also effective is to add sulfur and organic matter.
What is the pH of a sandy soil?
Normally these soils have the extremes of the pH range depending on the climate, humidity and nutrients present. Therefore, it is recommended to add organic matter or nutrient solutions.
What is the pH of a clay soil?
Normally they present values above 7, in order to facilitate cultivation in them it is recommended to add some substrate.
What is the pH of an acid soil?
An acid range is considered to be 0 to 7. Most plants have a hard time surviving at values below 6.5.
