|
| pH is a measurement of the condition of the biological entity/organism ie. Plants, animals, people, soil etc. "In a solution pH approximates but is not equal to p[H], the negative logarithm (base 10) of the molar concentration of dissolved hydronium ions (H3O+); a low pH indicates a high concentration of hydronium ions, while a high pH indicates a low concentration." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PH
Hydrogen in and of itself in hydronium ions has no nutritive value. Higher pH levels, lower hydrogen concentration, that are typically confirmed by soil analysis often result in more alkaline elements beneficially affecting optimum crop growth and development. The exception most often experienced is excessively high calcium which minimizes plant uptake of other important cation (positive charge, alkaline) elements ie. iron, magnesium... especially affecting germination, early crop growth, energy transfer within plant metabolic processes. It's not that the facts are different, it's how they are presented. pH does not directly measure nor indicate elemental/mineral nutrition levels or concentrations. pH can be used as motivator to apply calcium (all soils) and magnesium (mostly for sandy soils)...that's it...no direction for other elements required in lower concentrations. It's all about parts per million (ppm), parts per billion (ppb).
Knowledge of the science of optimum function of biological processes begins with a complete understanding of the PTE's along with their interrelationships. Ergo pH can only indicate a problem, not the specific elemental nutrition to improving crop growth and development.The Laws of Nature are clear and constant to those that observe and understand. Violation of these laws result in inefficient biological function. There are costs mostly in excess of the benefits for both inaction and reaction when not following these natural laws. Action and responsiveness to improving soil biology and nutrition provide beneficial and improved financial results. Morel mushrooms grow just fine without human intervention of tillage and pesticides. IMO YTJH
Edited by R.W. 8/16/2011 05:55
| |
|
Soil question - Base saturation
