ABSTRACT
The soil pH indicates the amount of acidity present in the soil solution and is one of the most
commonly measured soil properties. It is considered as a standard and routine soil analysis.
Soil pH affects the solubility and availability of many elements as well as microbial activity
(Curtin et al. 1984; Marschner 1995). An acid soil commonly has concentrations of Al or Mn
that are high enough to be toxic to some plants. The target soil pH, which represents the soil pH
value associated with optimum plant growth, varies with crop species and can be influenced by
soil type. In general, a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for most agronomic crops such as corn (Zea mays L.), soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.), and wheat (Triticum aestivum). However, a lower target pH may be acceptable for other plants such as potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) or blueberry (Vaccinium spp.). Liming acid soils to maintain an appropriate pH for plants is, therefore, an essential practice for soil and crop management in many areas.
