What Plants Like Acidic Soil?

Acid-loving plants flourish in acidic soil

Many plants thrive in acidic soil, which is soil with a pH level below 7. These plants, known as acid-loving or ericaceous plants, have adapted to the nutrient composition and acidity of such soil. One of the most popular acid-loving plants is the blueberry. These delicious fruits grow best in soil with a pH range of 4.0 to 5.5. Other fruit-bearing plants like cranberries and lingonberries also require acidic soil for optimal growth.

Acid-Loving Heather Family Plants Thrive

Another group of plants that prefer acidic soil are members of the heather family, such as heather shrubs, rhododendrons, and azaleas. These plants not only enjoy acidic soil but also prefer well-drained growing conditions. The vivid blooms of rhododendrons and azaleas are often seen in landscapes with acidic soil, as they flourish in a pH range of 4.5 to 6.0. Heather shrubs, with their vibrant foliage and delicate flowers, also thrive in acidic soil environments.

Ferns and Mosses Thrive in Acidic Soil

Several members of the fern family are also adapted to acidic soil. A popular example is the lady fern, with its gracefully arching fronds. Lady ferns prefer a slightly acidic soil pH of around 5.0 to 6.0. Additionally, many varieties of mosses, lichens, and liverworts are found in acidic soil habitats. These low-growing plants add a touch of beauty to acidic areas and contribute to the unique ecological balance in such environments.

Acidic Soil Boosts Vegetable Growth Efficiency

Lastly, certain vegetables are known to have a preference for acidic soil. Plants like potatoes, yams, and radishes grow more efficiently in slightly acidic conditions. Potatoes, in particular, require a pH range of 4.8 to 5.5 to produce healthy tubers. Additionally, crops like blueberries and tomatoes benefit from the acidity as it promotes the availability of key nutrients necessary for their growth and fruit production.