Acidifying soil for crop production west of the Cascade Mountains

Abstract

Soil acidification sometimes is necessary for optimum plant growth west of the Cascade Mountain Range. Commercial producers of blueberries, azaleas, rhododendrons, and other ornamentals may need to reduce soil pH for optimum production. Soil acidification is best performed prior to planting; it is much more difficult in established plantings. No routine soil test is available to determine soil acidification amendment rates. This publication is intended to provide guidelines for acidification of commercial fields. It is not intended for use with container-grown ornamentals.