Question

Solubility and availability of plant nutrients are related to

• A. Soil pH
• B. Soil porosity
• C. Soil temperature
• D. Soil colour

Answer 1

The correct option is A Soil pH

Soil pH is important because it influences several soil factors affecting plant growth, such as :

(1) soil bacteria,

(2) nutrient leaching,

(3) nutrient availability,

(4) toxic elements, and

(5) soil structure.

Bacterial activity that releases nitrogen from organic matter and certain fertilizers is particularly affected by soil pH, because bacteria operate best in the pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. Plant nutrients leach out of soils with a pH below 5.0 much more rapidly than from soils with values between 5.0 and 7.5. Plant nutrients are generally most available to plants in the pH range 5.5 to 6.5.