Acid-Loving Ground Plants: Gardening Guidance for Soils with Low pH Levels
Acidic soil, with a pH range of 4.0 to 7.0, provides a nurturing environment for a variety of plants, particularly those that prefer slightly to moderately acidic conditions. Here are some popular examples of plants that thrive in such soil.
Azaleas and Rhododendrons are two of the most well-known acid-loving plants. These flowering shrubs flourish in acidic soils and often struggle in alkaline soil conditions. They are common in regions with more rainfall and acidic dirt, such as the East Coast and the Pacific Northwest.
Japanese Iris (Iris ensata) is another plant that prefers slightly acidic soil. It thrives in loose, well-draining soil with an ideal pH around 6.0 to 6.5. Gardenias, like azaleas and rhododendrons, also benefit from acidic soil environments. To help maintain the right pH, techniques such as using vinegar can be employed.
Peace Lilies (Spathiphyllum) are indoor plants that appreciate a slightly acidic environment. This condition promotes vibrant green foliage and abundant white flowers. The plant benefits from a soil pH on the acidic side as well.
Succulents and cacti, however, generally do not prefer acidic soil. They often thrive better in neutral to slightly alkaline soils and well-draining substrates.
In addition to these examples, several vegetables also thrive in acidic soil. These include radishes, sweet potatoes, parsley, carrots, turnips, and cranberries, elderberries, blackcurrants, raspberries, gooseberries, and apples. Pepper plants, including bell peppers and chili peppers, also prefer a soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Broccoli, cucumbers, sweet corn, beans, squash, onions, and tomatoes also grow well in soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Rhubarb, a popular vegetable, grows best in full sun with a soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
For acid-loving plants, it's essential to provide well-drained, rich, moist, and fertile soil. Nasturtiums and marigolds are good choices for colorful ground cover and grow well in acidic soil.
To acidify soil for acid-loving plants, aluminium sulphate and elemental sulphur can be used. However, the acidification process is slow and should be monitored over several months.
Camellias, a popular flowering plant, grow best in moist, well-drained, and slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0-6.5. Hydrangeas, another flowering plant, can change the color of their blooms based on the acidity of the soil.
Hydroponic basil can be transplanted to soil, making it a versatile choice for gardeners. Tomatoes require warm, sunny conditions and fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0.
In summary, azaleas, rhododendrons, Japanese iris, gardenias, and peace lilies are classic examples of plants that thrive in acidic soils within the pH range of 4.0 to 7.0. By understanding the soil requirements of these plants, gardeners can create a thriving garden full of colour and flavour.
Peace lilies, thriving in slightly acidic environments, benefit from a soil pH similar to their preferred range. Nasturtiums and marigolds, good choices for colorful ground cover, also grow well in acidic soil.
