Last Updated on May 21, 2022
Do Junipers Make Soil Acidic? This is a very interesting and common question. If there are lots of trees with leaves that turn yellow/brown in the Fall, then yes, the soil would be acidic. However, the most common reason for acidic soils is poor drainage.
If you have soil with high pH levels, it means that the soil is too wet or not porous enough, which would make it difficult to drain excess moisture. On our popular gardening blog, you will find information about growing fruits and vegetables, soil types, fertilizers, pest control, water supply, drainage, and other issues regarding soil acidity.
In some cases, soil acidity will need to be treated. A lot of products contain copper, which can damage a garden by making the soil acidic. Let’s have a look below to see if Junipers contain a high concentration of copper and other chemicals. We aim to provide quality content that helps you achieve your gardening goals!
What Is The Cause Of Acidity In Soil?
Acidic soils are caused by the presence of high amounts of H + ions, a product of decomposition reactions (e.g., fermentation and decay) of organic matter. The primary source of H+ ion production in the soil is humus.
Organic matter is made up of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur, and oxygen. A small amount of these elements can exist in an acidity-free form as carbonates or sulfates, but when present, they are the products of biological processes. In general, carbonates and sulfates are nonvolatile and soluble.
The main cause of soil acidity comes from organic matter, which includes proteins, carbohydrates, and lignin. Humus contains these acids, which in turn make the soil more acidic. This may also be caused by an excess of available phosphorus in the soil.
Phosphorus is necessary for the growth of green plants. However, too much phosphorus can result in acidification of the soil because it is converted into an organic acid called phosphoric acid. The phosphoric acid is less soluble than inorganic salts and becomes less available for plant uptake. So, do junipers make the soil acidic? Let’s find out below.
Do Junipers Make Soil Acidic?
Yes, Junipers make the soil acidic! However, they emit much more benefits and are beneficial to have in the garden. Juniper needles contain an acid called alchymalic acid, which causes the soil to become acidic. This acidity makes the soil more suitable for the growth of certain bacteria, fungi, and algae.
The effect of the acidity in the soil is so small that you should not worry about it. In fact, if you use juniper trees in your garden, it may actually make your garden healthier! Juniper trees are native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Africa, and the wood from their berries can be used for smoking foods and meat products.
In nature, juniper trees release an oil called eugenol that helps repel insects, and this oil also acts as a preservative. Because the berries from these trees are high in tannins, they naturally have a dark color. You may find these berries used in the baking industry because of their intense flavor.
Juniper trees can grow in dry climates or semi-arid areas, so they can be a great addition to any landscape, especially if you live in a climate with lots of rain. Now that you have the answers to, do junipers make the soil acidic, you can grow them with no hassles. Click on this video to find out how to feed acid-loving plants.
What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Acidic Soil?
Soil pH is vital for plant health and growth. In addition to these two properties, acidic soil is also beneficial to insects and other soil organisms. Most soil types will naturally be acidic due to the organic matter it contains.
Therefore, you need to pay attention to the pH of your soil as well as maintain and improve its overall condition. Listed below are the pros and cons of acidic soil.
Pros:
Acidic soil can make plants grow faster.
There are several plants that thrive in acidic soil, including the common house plant, Peace Lily.
Acidic soil is more absorbent and can hold water for longer periods of time.
It allows for a larger root system to be developed by plants which in turn increases plant growth and development.
It encourages more nutrient absorption by the plant, which can lead to better health.
Acidic soil helps the plant to withstand drought conditions and pests.
It also protects the plant from disease by providing greater resistance to it.
Cons:
Certain plants will not grow well in acidic soil so make sure you choose a compatible one.
It is vital you use a pH test kit to determine the soil’s acid and alkaline levels.
Acidic soils need proper maintenance.
The Key To Plant Selection For Acid Soil
There are many plants and trees available that can grow well in acid soil. The key is to know which plants do well in your area. Before buying any plant, learn what you should look for. Make sure the plant can handle the acidity of your soil. Look for plants that have roots that are shallow and long and have a high rate of photosynthesis.
They will be able to produce more food for themselves than other plants with deep roots. You can buy fertilizers specifically designed for acid soils or soil amendments (such as wood ash or sulfur). These products will increase the soil’s acidity and make it easier for the plants to grow.
When you plant in acidic soil, always dig a hole big enough to cover the root ball with water. If the hole isn’t big enough, you could damage the plant’s roots, and they will not grow well. Acid soil is often found near large bodies of water which include rivers, lakes, and the ocean.
Conclusion
Do Junipers make soil acidic was the question that you all wanted answers to. Now that you have the answers, it is evident that the benefits of acidity outweigh the cons. Acidic soil is not as problematic as some may think as it can be of great benefit to any garden.
Unless it causes plants to wilt, it should not be a problem. Therefore, monitoring the soil pH is vital. The pH scale ranges from 0 (very acidic) to 14 (very alkaline). Anything under 7 is considered acidic. A pH value of less than 5 indicates that the soil is very acidic.
Alkaline soil has a pH value greater than 7.0. The information above tells us that acidity in soil happens when excess or improper amounts of sulfur and phosphorous accumulate in the soil. This occurs when there is too much of a substance being added to the soil, which is what is called over-fertilization.
Sulfur is a naturally occurring element that helps with plant nutrition. Phosphorous is a vital component of every living cell and aids in plant growth. Remember that proper application of fertilizer to the soil is essential to growing healthy, strong plants. Click on this link to find out the benefits of maintaining an appropriate pH profile.
What should I plant next to Juniper?
I would recommend that you should plant Lilacs next to Juniper. Juniper is an evergreen tree and will not grow well if it has other trees around it. Lilacs are perennial plants that can last for years when grown next to junipers.
What naturally makes soil acidic?
Certain plants make soil naturally acidic by making use of minerals such as magnesium, iron, and calcium to help with their growth.
What plants make soil acidic?
Acids in soil are made by decaying vegetation, and they reduce the ability of the soil to hold water and minerals. Most woody plants produce acids, but some weeds also do. Examples include nettles, horsetail, and dandelion plants.
How do you neutralize acidic soil?
A mixture of wood ash, lime, and gypsum is very useful in neutralizing acidic soil. These three materials should be mixed together and applied to the soil. Then, the land should be covered with a plastic film for about two months. This process is called "acidification".
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