ROANOKE TIMES 
                      Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times

DATE: Thursday, September 19, 1996           TAG: 9609190042
SECTION: CURRENT                  PAGE: NRV2 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
COLUMN: hoein' & growin
SOURCE: DIANE RELF 

PLANTS AND ACIDIC SOILS

The acidity of most soils can be increased by adding acid-based fertilizers, aluminum sulphate, cottonseed meal, peat moss, sulphur or other organic materials. Be sure to have your soil tested to determine if the soil pH is between 4.5 and 6.0 before investing in azaleas, camellias, rhododendrons or gardenias.

Lowering the pH of the soil increases soil nutrient availability (especially for minor elements, such as iron and magnesium). Yellowing between the veins of young leaves indicates an iron deficiency in a plant. Magnesium deficiency symptoms are similar, except the yellowing appears first on the older leaves. Deficiencies can be corrected temporarily by applying products containing these nutrients, such as fertilizers. A longer-lasting solution is to reduce soil alkalinity.

In addition to the proper pH level, acid-loving plants need good soil drainage. Before planting, fill the hole half full of water. If water remains in the hole after 24 to 48 hours, choose another site, plant in raised beds, or install a tile drainage system.

Fertilize acid-loving plants with materials that are acid in nature. Cottonseed meal is an organic fertilizer. Depending on the soil condition and the plant's need, cottonseed meal may provide most of the soil nutrients required. It also increases soil acidity and releases nutrients gradually like a control-release fertilizer. Ammonium sulphate is a good supplemental source of nitrogen to use with cottonseed meal.

Most acid-loving plants have shallow root systems, so avoid cultivating. Mulch using 2 to 3 inches of cottonseed hulls, peat moss, oak leaves or pine needles. Mulching helps prevent the growth of weeds and grasses, conserves soil moisture, keeps soil cool around shallow roots in the summer, and reduces upheaval of roots caused by soil freezing and thawing in the winter.

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