Which pH level indicates an alkaline soil?

An alkaline soil is characterized by a pH level that is higher than 7.0. Soils with a pH of 7.0 are considered neutral, meaning they have an equal balance of hydrogen ions and hydroxyl ions. When the pH rises above 7.0, it indicates an abundance of hydroxyl ions, leading to alkalinity. Therefore, any soil with a pH more than 7.0 is classified as alkaline.

This fundamental understanding of soil pH is crucial for crop advisors, as it affects nutrient availability. Certain nutrients become less available to plants in alkaline conditions, which can impact crop growth and yield. Options such as a pH of less than 5.0 indicate highly acidic soils, which present a different set of challenges for crop production. Choosing soils with the right pH for specific crops is integral to maximizing agricultural productivity.