Notes from Soil Class, pH

pH is something we may take for granted,

but it makes a big difference in plant health and its fruit.

Have your soil tested ($15) by mail at the U of M.

 

There are three main groups of pH plants in Minnesota

 

Group 1:  Alfalfa, Alsike Clover, Apples, & Asparagus

    pH of 6.5 is best, add Lime to raise pH.

 

Group 2: Birdsfoot Trefoil, Buckwheat, Corn, Edible Beans, Grapes, Grass Seed or Hay, Peas, Red Clover, Barley, Wheat, Oats, Raspberries, Strawberries, Sugar Beets, Sunflowers, Sweet Corn, & Vegetable Crops  

    pH of 6.0,  Add lime to raise pH

 

Group 3: Potatoes, Grass Sod, Blueberries, & Wild Rice.

    Prefer acid soils, Add Sulfur. Approx. 0.8 lbs/100 sq. ft. will lower pH 1 unit. in sandy soil

                                                     Approx. 2.4 lbs/100 sq. ft. will lower pH 1 unit. in loam or silt loam soil

 

 

From a highly recommended night class, SOIL1125, U of M, Dr. Terry Cooper