How does soil pH affect plant growth?
From plants growing on their own in Mother Nature to crops grown on farms, the development of every plant is directly dependent on the soil. Thus, plants obtain the necessary water and nutrients from the soil through their roots. For this, it is important that the relevant land has a fertile and favorable environment. On the other hand, it is useful to be familiar with the rules of proper planting and care during crop cultivation. One of the most important concepts that anyone involved in farming should know about soil is soil pH.
What is soil pH?
Soil pHis an indicator of soil acidity or alkalinity. Thus, the presence of OH- ions in the soil indicates that the soil is alkaline, that is, the pH level is high. The presence of H+ ions in the soil indicates that the soil is acidic, that is, the pH level is low. The pH level of the soil is estimated between 0-14. The optimal soil pH level for plants is considered to be in the range of 6.6-7.3. Such soils are called neutral soils. Those with a pH level below 7 are considered acidic soils, and those above 7 are considered alkaline soils.
How is soil pH regulated?
You can determine the pH level of the farm area with a device that measures the appropriate indicator or with special methods recommended by agronomists. Basically, it is recommended to register through the device in the area. It will be useful to carry out measurements in several areas of the plot to be completely sure of the results. Depending on the result, works are started in the area. Organic matter, lime, sulfur, soil conditioners, specialty fertilizers, etc. to adjust the pH level. can be used.
What happens when soil pH is high?
High soil pH can cause serious problems for plant growth and soil health. However, it is possible to lower the pH of the soil and create a more favorable environment for crops. As we mentioned above, soils with a pH level greater than 7 are known as alkaline soils. Alkalization of the soil leads to less solubility of micronutrients such as iron, manganese, zinc, copper and boron and reduced availability for plants. This can cause yellowing of leaves in plants, retardation of development and weakening of productivity.
How to lower a high pH level in soil?
To reduce the soil pH level, it is appropriate to take steps according to the type of soil and the needs of the grown crop. To reduce the pH level in the soil, acidifying substances such as sulfur, ammonium-based fertilizers, and acidic irrigation water can be used.
What happens when soil pH is low?
Sols with a pH level below 7 are highly acidic. Thus, the amount of elements such as phosphorus, calcium and magnesium is low in soils included in this category. Acidic soils damage plant roots, make them susceptible to diseases, and reduce the ability to effectively absorb water and nutrients.
How to improve low pH in soil?
The use of lime is recommended to increase the pH level in the soil, which in turn neutralizes the acidity of the soil. It is also advisable to apply wood ash, which contains calcium carbonate and other minerals that help raise the pH level of the soil. In addition, it is advisable not to use acid-forming fertilizers such as ammonium sulfate and urea. Using nitrate-based fertilizers can help prevent the pH from dropping.
Sale of means for adjusting the pH level in the soil
It is important to carry out planting work, especially taking into account the pH level of the soil, for abundant and high-quality harvest from the farms. Adjusts the pH level of the soil in your farm fieldssoil regulators,fertilizersand other means can be obtained from more than 200 sales points of the gubre.az agrarian trade network, which specializes in the sale of agricultural products in our country, located in different regions of our country.
