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📊 Soil pH Calculator — Acidity Interpretation

Interpret your soil pH results and get amendment recommendations. Understand acidity/alkalinity levels for optimal crop growth.

Quick answer: Ideal pH for most crops: 6.0-7.0. Below 5.5: acidic — add lime. Above 8.0: alkaline — add sulfur or organic matter. Test every 2-3 years.

📊 Interpret Soil pH

From soil test — water or CaCl2 method
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Soil pH Status
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Recommendation

📐 Soil pH Scale Interpretation

Below 5.0: Very strongly acidic — aluminium toxicity risk
5.0-5.5: Strongly acidic — lime required
5.5-6.0: Moderately acidic — monitor
6.0-7.0: Neutral to ideal — optimal for most crops
7.0-8.0: Slightly alkaline — watch micronutrients
Above 8.0: Alkaline — iron/zinc deficiency risk

📊 Worked Example

Soil test result: pH 5.2 (strongly acidic).

Status: Acidic — below optimal range
Recommendation: Apply 4-6 t/ha lime depending on soil type
Expected response: 15-30% yield increase for acid-sensitive crops like canola

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Most broadacre crops: 6.0-7.0. Potatoes: 5.0-6.0. Lucerne: 6.5-7.5. Below 5.5: aluminium toxicity. Above 8.0: micronutrient deficiencies.

Apply agricultural lime. Use Lime Rate Calculator for amounts. Dolomite adds magnesium if deficient. Incorporate lime into top 10cm. Response takes 6-12 months.

Apply elemental sulfur (100-500 kg/ha). Use acid-forming fertilisers (ammonium sulfate, urea). Add organic matter (compost, manure). Gypsum improves structure without changing pH.

Every 2-3 years for stable soils. Annually for sandy soils or intensive cropping. Before planting acid-sensitive crops. After lime application — retest after 6-12 months.

🔗 Related Calculators

🪨 Lime Rate🧪 Fertilizer Blend⚠️ Nutrient Deficiency