Plants that thrive in acidic soil

Does your garden have particularly acidic soil? If so, there are a number of wonderful plants that would feel right at home in your yard. While most plants prefer soil that is neutral or only slightly acidic, there are numerous acid-loving and acid-tolerating species.

• Vegetables. Some veggies that thrive in acidic soil are radishes, potatoes, rhubarb and peppers. And many tolerate acidic soil, including broccoli, carrots and tomatoes.

• Fruits. A few types of fruit that love acidic soil are blueberries, cranberries, currants, elderberries and gooseberries. Some that tolerate acidic soil are grapes, raspberries and strawberries.

• Flowers. The types of flowering plants that love acidic soil are numerous and varied. Some of the most popular ones are azaleas, daffodils, rhododendrons, hydrangeas, camellias, heather and bleeding hearts.

Want some more ideas? Soil pH is usually consistent in a given geographical area, so you could take a stroll and see what plants are growing well in your neighborhood.

The importance of soil pH
Every plant has a particular soil pH range within which it grows best. For most plants, a pH level between 5.5 and 7.0, or slightly acidic to neutral, is optimal. But you can have a diverse and thriving garden even if your soil is overly acidic or alkaline. You’ll need to do one of two things: either adjust the pH through a variety of methods or grow plants that flourish in your particular type of soil. Discover the soil pH in your yard by picking up a testing kit at your local garden center.

FYI: Rhododendrons are one type of flowering plant that will thrive in acidic soil.