What type of soil has a pH less than 7.0?

Soil pH is a critical factor that affects nutrient availability, microbial activity, and overall soil health. A soil with a pH less than 7.0 is characterized as acidic, meaning it has a higher concentration of hydrogen ions compared to hydroxide ions. Acidic soils can influence the solubility of certain nutrients, often leading to an increase in the availability of micronutrients like iron and manganese, while potentially reducing the availability of macronutrients such as calcium and magnesium.

Understanding soil pH is essential for effective crop management and soil health, as maintaining the right pH can greatly affect plant growth and development. Acidic soils are common in many environments, and their management may include practices such as liming to raise the pH if needed.

Neutral soil, in contrast, has a pH of around 7.0, indicating a balanced concentration of hydrogen and hydroxide ions. Loamy soil refers to a soil texture that is a mix of sand, silt, and clay, and its pH can vary widely; it is not defined by a specific pH level. Alkaline soil has a pH greater than 7.0, indicating a higher availability of hydroxide ions and presents different management challenges.