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Acid Loving Plants

When we think of “acid”, we may conjure up images of metal being eaten away with just a drop of a chemical. In reality, though, we deal with acids all the time without even noticing it. Of course, these are very mild.

Our bodies are slightly on the other side of the pH scale, measuring between 7.3 to 7.6 normally. However, we consume a lot of foods that are basic. Lemons, pineapples, tomatoes, and many other fruits and vegetables. Water is technically neutral, but depending where it comes from, it can be slightly acidic or basic. Vinegar and even aspirin are acids, too!

It’s not only us that like a bit of acid, either. Many – or even most – plants thrive in acidic soil! There’s no need to panic if your soil tests below 7 on the pH scale. In fact, it means you have a wide variety of choices for what you plant there, even if the pH is as low as 4.5.

In fact, there are fewer options if the pH is over 7. But you can still find great choices for alkaline soil.

But let’s get into some of the options you have if your soil tests below 7 – especially in the 5.5 – 6.5 range. This is where you have the most choices. Of course, you’ll have to consider other factors like the amount of sun and other soil conditions, too, but pH is one of the most important factors for a plant’s health.This is by no means a complete list – the article would go on forever! But we’ll give you some samples of what you can enjoy after your soil tests as acidic.

Flowering Plants

Flowers look great in any yard, and if you want to add this great diversity of colors, you should check out some of these!

  • California Lilac
  • Japanese iris
  • Trillium
  • Begonia
  • Caladium
  • Heathers
  • Camellia
  • Daffodils
  • Nasturtium
  • Marigolds
  • Begonias
  • Iris
daffodils thrive in acidic soil

Bushes

  • Azaleas
  • Rhododendrons
  • Magnolias
  • Hydrangeas
  • Holly (and other broadleaf evergreens)

Trees

  • Dogwood
  • Beech
  • Pin oak
  • Japanese Maple
  • Willow oak
  • Magnolia
  • Apples (ok, this goes under fruits, too!)
acidic soil is great for potatoes

Fruits and Vegetables

  • Blueberries
  • Squash
  • Sweet Corn
  • Cranberries
  • Broccoli
  • Beans
  • Strawberries
  • Raspberries

Conclusion

Acidic soil is far from a problem for many plants. In fact, they’ll love it! It doesn’t matter whether you want fruit or flowers, trees or vines, there are a lot of fantastic options to choose from!

About Us

Tom and Sarah Greenwood are the dynamic duo behind “Yards Improved,” dedicated to the joys and challenges of gardening, pool maintenance, and lawn and patio care. With Tom’s passion for landscape design and Sarah’s enthusiastic approach to gardening, they share their journey of transforming their backyard into a thriving retreat. We strive to offer practical advice aimed at helping you enhance your outdoor space.