If your plants are showing signs of undernourishment despite all the favorable conditions, the soil’s acidity might be an underlying reason. Determine the soil pH as the first step, and then learn How to Change Your Soil pH, amending it with the right nutrients.
The soil pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity in soils. A pH level below 7 is acidic, and above 7 is alkaline. Most of the plants prefer neutral pH ranging from 5.5-7.
Adding manure is the best way to make your soil acidic. Manure not only lowers soil pH but also provides other necessary components, adding microorganisms and good insects, improving soil texture, and making it porous.
However, lowering soil pH with manure can be a slow process.
Used tea or coffee grounds can lower your soil pH, although they can’t make a big change in soil pH, as most of its acidity gets removed after brewing. But you should use it constantly to see some changes.
It also contains nutrients and trace elements like Nitrogen, Potassium, Phosphorous, Magnesium, and Copper, which are essential for the healthy growth of plants. Using it also deters insects like fire ants and snails.
This is the fastest way to lower your soil pH. Sulfur can be applied in higher quantities if plants are not planted in soil. Follow product instructions before application.
There are different kinds of sulfur available, but Aluminum sulfate works instantly as it dissolves in soil. Be cautious while using it because it can cause aluminum toxicity in some plants.
If your soil is acidic, then wood ash is the best option for you to increase soil pH. Wood ash also contains potassium that plants use for fruit production. It is good for vegetables and fruits.
However, do not use cardboard ash or wood ash with urea
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