Soil pH

Soil pH measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in a soil solution, indicating how acidic or alkaline the soil is. This is significant because it determines which nutrients are available for absorption. For instance, in very acidic soils, all primary plant nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, etc.) become unavailable for absorption, whereas in highly alkaline soils, nutrients like iron, zinc, manganese, and copper may also become inaccessible. Additionally, pH influences microbial growth, survival, and function, particularly in highly acidic soils.

Soil pH is measured on a scale from 1 to 14, where 1 is extremely acidic, 14 is extremely alkaline, and 7 is neutral. Turfgrasses flourish in soil near this neutral point, which is where most nutrients are readily available.

Regular testing (two or three times a year) of the soil is crucial to monitor pH trends and implement an action plan if levels shift significantly in either direction. Lime is frequently used to increase soil alkalinity, while sulfur or iron sulfate may be applied to lower soil acidity.