Question

Gardeners understand that plants have specific pH requirements. Most plants thrive in soil with a pH that is slightly acidic, neutral, or slightly basic.

Imagine your soil is basic, with a pH of 8.5. In soils with a high pH, minerals like iron, manganese, and phosphorus are less available to plants. How can you lower the pH to an appropriate level so your garden plants will thrive?
A) Apply wood ashes.
B) Add limestone or calcium carbonate.
C) Water frequently to wash away the base.
D) Add a natural acid like pine needles or humus.

Answer 1

Hi,

The correct answer option is (D) Add a natural acid like pine needles or humus

Step-by-step explanation

PH is the standard measurement of alkalinity and acidity. Soil PH affects the availability of nutrients in the soil for plant use. When the soils are alkaline , a person can lower the PH by adding products such as organic mulches, aluminum sulfate and sphagnum peat. Organic mulches could be wood chips, chopped leaves, compost or pine needles.

Best Wishes!