There are a few qualities that you might be considering for any soil you’re looking to use in your landscape, and pH levels are often among this list. What exactly do pH levels refer to, which pH levels are ideal for your landscape setup, and how can you determine the proper pH levels for any soil need you may have?
At BioGrass Sod Farms, we’re here to offer a wide range of soil and other landscaping products to clients around Salt Lake City, including premium topsoil, bulk topsoil delivery and various other kinds of garden soil. Here are some basics on what pH levels are in soil, how the pH scale works, and some of the direct effects that different pH levels can have on your soil.
What is Soil pH Level?
For those who are just learning about soil for the first time, it’s important to understand that pH levels refer to the acidity or alkalinity of a particular substance. This applies to all kinds of substances, not just soil – you may also be familiar with pH levels in water, for instance, which is why some people use “pH balanced” products on their skin and hair.
When we talk about soil pH levels, we’re referring to the amount of hydrogen ions in that soil. This measurement is usually expressed on a scale from 0 to 14 – anything under 7 would be classified as acidic, while anything over 7 would be considered alkaline. A neutral pH level is exactly 7.
General Soil pH Value Ranges
While this can vary somewhat for certain specialty plants or crops, there are some general ranges for pH values that most soil falls into. These include:
- A pH level of 5.0 to 6.0 is considered acidic and is ideal for plants such as blueberries, rhododendrons, and azaleas.
- A pH level of 6.1 to 7.0 is considered slightly acidic and is suitable for most plants, including vegetables, fruits, and flowers.
- A pH level of 7.1 to 8.0 is considered alkaline and is best for plants such as clematis, lilacs, and asparagus.
- A pH level above 8.0 is highly alkaline and may not be suitable for most plants.
Soil pH levels outside these ranges are somewhat rarer, though not impossible. Certain plants, particularly those adapted to desert environments, may thrive in very alkaline soil with a pH level above 8.0.
Effects of Different Soil pH Levels
Soil pH levels have a significant impact on the health and growth potential of plants. Generally speaking, most plants prefer a neutral or slightly acidic soil pH level for optimal growth. When soil pH levels fall below or rise above this range, plants may not be able to access essential nutrients in the soil, resulting in stunted growth and decreased vitality.
Additionally, certain pests and diseases are more prevalent in soils with extreme pH levels. For example, acidic soils can promote fungal growth while alkaline soils may attract certain insect pests. Understanding and maintaining appropriate soil pH levels is crucial for creating a thriving and healthy landscape.
Determining Soil pH Levels
If you’re unsure of the pH levels in your soil, there are a few ways to determine them. One option is to use a soil testing kit, which can be purchased at most gardening or home improvement stores. These kits come with instructions on how to collect and test a sample of your soil.
Another option is to send a soil sample to a professional laboratory for testing. This will provide you with more detailed information about the pH levels in your soil, as well as other important factors such as nutrient levels and organic matter content.
Of course, the simplest way to know soil pH levels is to work with a soil provider like BioGrass Sod Farms, where we provide premium topsoil and other products that have been thoroughly tested and are guaranteed to be of high quality. Our team is also always available to answer any questions you may have about soil pH levels and how they can impact your landscape.
Understanding the role of pH levels in soil is crucial for creating a successful landscape. By paying attention to pH levels and taking steps to maintain them, you can ensure that your plants have access to the necessary nutrients and conditions for optimal growth. Whether you’re a gardening beginner or an experienced landscaper, knowing about soil pH is essential for achieving your landscaping goals.