How does soil pH influence plant growth?

Soil pH plays a crucial role in plant growth primarily because it affects the availability of nutrients in the soil. Most plants thrive within a specific pH range, typically between 6.0 and 7.5. Within this optimal pH range, essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as micronutrients like iron and magnesium, are more readily available for plant uptake.

When the pH is too low (acidic) or too high (alkaline), certain nutrients can become locked in the soil, making them unavailable to plants. For instance, an acidic soil can lead to a deficiency of calcium and magnesium, while alkaline conditions can limit the availability of iron, potentially leading to chlorosis and poor growth.

In addition, soil pH can also influence microbial activity in the soil, which is vital for nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition. Therefore, maintaining the appropriate soil pH is essential for ensuring that plants have access to the nutrients they need for strong and healthy growth.