Knowing how to make the soil acidic is a key aspect if you treat those plants defined as "acidophilus". In fact, one of the most important parameters in the evaluation of the best soil for the type of plants we intend to grow is the PH value.
It is a matter of soil acidity, which corresponds to the concentration of H + ions present in a substance. Depending on the characteristics, in fact, some plants require different soils with acidity levels below 6.5. In some cases they can even go down to 3.7.
This type of plant is called 'acidophilus' due to its mainly mountainous origin that has led them to adapt to soils with a low concentration of positive ions (calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium) and to feed only in the presence of high-reaction bottoms. acid content. .
How to make acidic soil: what are acidophilic plants.
The number of plants included in this category is very high. Camellias, hydrangeas, rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias, heather, gardenias, mimosas, lilies, ferns, blueberries.
And more: firs, maples, sequoias, beech, chestnut and mimosa ... And these are just some of the most widespread acidophiles.
What happens if the soil is not acidic enough?
In this case, the first obvious sign of the suffering of the plants is the yellowish color of the leaves (iron chlorosis). This is due to the lack of nutrients that the plant manages to obtain from the soil through the roots and the low absorption of iron that limits the production of chlorophyll (the main color of the foliage).
It is for this reason that even before assessing the correct exposure to the sun, humidity, temperature and frequency of irrigation, it is essential to know what type of soil we are going to use. Based on that, we will know better which species will be appropriate to select.
Generally, acid soil is widespread in mountainous areas or particularly rain, or in ad hoc prepared soils, where the base of the mulch is acidic in nature.
But in all other cases, how do you establish the pH of the soil with a sufficient approximation? And how can you make it more acid naturally?
How to make acid soil in 3 steps.
Check the pH of the soil
To answer the first question, you can use classic litmus paper. Put a little soil in a glass of distilled water and immerse yourself in the map.
Alternatively, you can use the appropriate kit for the analysis of the PH available in specialized stores. If instead you use pre-prepared ground bags, the indication of acidity is reported directly in the package.
The soil acidification operation.
This operation is more complex (but not impossible). That is, there is acidification of the soil and maintenance of the correct levels of acidity. In this case, the best way to proceed is to imitate nature using a series of natural remedies and readily available substances.
Second, we are very careful with the water used for irrigation. The water should never be too hard since the limestone decreases the acidity of the substrate. Therefore, we use distilled water, well water or even rainwater.
All the substances useful to make acid soil.
- To make the tap water at home more acidic with a DIY method, it is necessary to add 1 tablespoon of vinegar per liter of water or the juice of half a lemon.
- In addition to vinegar and lemon juice, coca cola, orange juice, beer, wine and tomato can also help us to naturally correct the acidity of the soil.
- Even reusing coffee grounds is a traditionally useful method to make soil acidic.
The importance of fertilization.
In addition, acidophilic plants require the periodic administration of sulfate or iron chelate, which solves the problem of lack of iron absorption.
A natural fertilizer can be used to acidify the soil in a natural way, are soil lupins (especially suitable for citrus), which distributes on the surface of the soil undergo a process of acid degradation that releases slow release nitrogen.
Sour mulch is also one of the most effective methods to better prepare the soil before planting the plants. In this sense, you can use an oak leaf composting (especially acid) or spruce sawdust that helps maintain acidity levels constant, ensures aeration and softens the substrate to make it easier to work.
Also the maintenance of the nitrogen levels is fundamental to guarantee the survival of the acidophiles. To do this, you can use soy flour or alfalfa that restores the amount of nitrogen present in the soil. Same effect with the addition of pine needles, blond sphagnum peat, black peat or brown earth.
It's not easy ... but with time you learn!