What effect does increased soil acidity have on plant growth?

Increased soil acidity can negatively affect plant growth primarily through its impact on nutrient availability and uptake. When soil becomes more acidic, the availability of certain essential nutrients, such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, decreases, while the solubility of toxic elements like aluminum and manganese may increase.

As a result, plants may struggle to absorb the nutrients they need for growth, leading to deficiencies. For instance, high acidity can cause the roots to have a harder time absorbing nutrients, even when those nutrients are present in the soil, because the conditions inhibit root function and hinder the symbiotic relationships with beneficial soil microorganisms that assist in nutrient uptake.

Understanding the effects of soil pH on plant health is vital in agriculture and horticulture. Maintaining an optimal pH can help ensure that plants can access the nutrients they need to thrive. Other choices do not accurately reflect the general consequences of increased soil acidity, as they suggest improvements or enhancements that are typically not associated with high acidity levels.