What does proper soil pH affect in plants?

Proper soil pH is crucial for nutrient availability and overall plant health because it influences how well plants can uptake essential nutrients from the soil. Different nutrients become available or are locked out depending on the pH level of the soil. For instance, many nutrients are most available within a pH range of about 6 to 7.5, which is typically considered neutral to slightly acidic. Outside of this range, certain nutrients may become increasingly unavailable to plants; for example, phosphorus becomes less available in acidic soils.

Furthermore, the overall health of the plant is tied to its ability to absorb these nutrients for growth, development, and disease resistance. A balanced pH helps maintain healthy microbial activity in the soil, which is also essential for nutrient cycling and soil fertility. Without proper pH levels, plants may show signs of deficiencies or toxicities, directly impacting their health and vitality.