Acid-loving plants thrive in soils with a pH level between 5.0 and 6.0.; Azalea, Bayberry, Blueberry, Camelia, Cranberry, Dogwood, Fir, Fothergilla, Gardenia, Heath, Heather, Hemlock, Holly, Hydrangea, Itea, Leucothoe, Magnolia, Mountain Ash, Mountain Laurel, Oak, Pieris, Pine, Raspberry, Rhododendron, Spruce, and White Cedar are common the common acid-loving plants around.
If you’re growing these kinds of plants, you need to be careful about what kind of fertilizer you apply to them and how much. The best fertilizers for acid-loving plants and acidic soil are:
- 15 lb EB Stone Organic Azalea, Camellia & Gardenia Food
- Jack’s Acid Special Fertilizer for Acid-Loving Plants, 1.5lbs
- Peters Acid Special 21-7-7 – 25 lb
- Greenway Biotech Organic Sulfur Powder Fertilizer (5 Pounds)
- Scotts Garden Pro Miracid Plant Food, 4lb (2 Pack)
- IMUSTGARDEN AlgoPlus 532 1L Acid Loving Liquid Fertilizer
- Espoma Holly-tone Fertilizer for Acid-Loving Plants; 4 lb. Bag
Acid-loving plants aren’t picky; they just have special needs and requirements. In this article, we will explain how to apply these fertilizers for best results, the relationship between acidic soils and plant health, and how to reduce the acidity of the soil.
1. 15 lb EB Stone Organic Azalea, Camellia & Gardenia Food
EB Stone organic plant food is an organic acidic fertilizer formulated for the healthy growth of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, gardenia, and other acid-loving plants. EB Stone organic plant food is made from a blend of organic materials from plant and animal waste sources to promote a slow and long-term supply of nutrients that enhance rapid growth, beautiful foliage, and strong root development on a single application. The EB Stone organic plant food does not burn the plant root or scorch any parts. This fertilizer is good for both indoor and outdoor plants.
Characteristics:
– Formulated for acid-loving plants
– Encourages growth, green foliage, and beautiful flowers
– Contains natural organic ingredients
- Suitable for use on rhododendrons, fuchsia, and evergreen conifers
– Contains Blood Meal, Feather Meal, Cottonseed Meal, Bone Meal, Dried Chicken Manure, Bat Guano, Alfalfa Meal, Kelp Meal, Potassium Sulfate, Humic Acids, and mycorrhizal fungi
Formulation Details:
– Manufacturer: EB Stone
– Item Weight: 15 pounds
– Date First Available: February 21, 2013
– ASIN: B00BJAXEBM
Additional Information:
– Not discontinued by the manufacturer
Application Guide
Target plants: Typically formulated for rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, gardenia, and other acid-loving plants.
Application Forms: Available in granules for easy application.
How to Apply: Apply EB Stone organic plant food as top dressing at the root zone of acid-loving plants, cover the soil, and water immediately. You can also apply to potted plants by pouring the fertilizer at the root zone of the plants. It does not burn or scorch the plant parts.
When to apply: The EB Stone organic plant food can be applied throughout the growing cycle of the plant, especially in spring when the plants are actively growing. It can be applied to both indoor and outdoor plants.
Precautions:
– Always test the soil pH before application.
– Use protective gear like gloves and a nose mask to prevent direct touch.
– Store in a cool and dry place.
– Keep out of reach of children and pets
– Do not apply in harsh weather conditions
– Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on dosage.
2. Jack’s Acid Special Fertilizer for Acid-Loving Plants, 1.5lbs
Jack’s Acid Special Fertilizer is a balanced fertilizer to support the growth of plants that love acidic soils. This fertilizer is a nitrogen-rich fertilizer containing about 17 percent nitrogen and 6 percent phosphorus and potassium, alongside micronutrients like iron and sulfur to support the beautiful bloom and vegetative part growth. Jack’s Acid Special Fertilizer is water-soluble and can be applied directly to the root zone and leaves as foliar feed.
Characteristics:
– Perfect for greening up all acid-loving garden and houseplants
– Feeds through both the roots and the leaves
- Effective in reducing soil pH and keeping iron and other trace elements available to the plant
– Contains elevated levels of iron and sulfur
– Promotes lush vegetative growth and better blooms
Formulation Details:
– Analysis: 17-6-6
– Can be used as a foliar or root feeding product
– Water-soluble powder
– Included measuring spoon for easy application
– Contains added micronutrients for optimal growth and health
Additional Information:
– Date First Available: October 11, 2013
– Manufacturer: JR Peters
– ASIN: B00FSI2EQC
– Country of Origin: USA
Customer Feedback:
– Customers are satisfied with the fertilizer’s quality, ease of use, and color benefits for plants
– Effective for both blooming and non-blooming plants
– Appreciated for its high concentration
– Keeps plants healthy and happy
Application Guide
Target plants: Typically formulated for acid-loving plants like hollies, pin oaks, pines, spruce, cedar, blueberries, evergreens, strawberries, azaleas, bayberry, dogwood, fir, ferns, rhododendrons, camellias, potatoes, hydrangeas, and others.
Application Forms: Available in powder form and applied after dissolving in water to achieve a certain concentration.
How to Apply: Mix 1 teaspoon of the Jack’s Acid special fertilizer powder in one gallon of water to form a liquid fertilizer. After evenly dissolved in water, apply to the root zone or directly on the leaves as foliar feeding using a garden sprayer. You can mix with proportionate irrigation water and apply it directly to the root zones of plants through the irrigation drip lines.
When to apply: Apply during spring when the plant is actively growing. It does not require repeated applications.
Precautions:
– Always test the soil pH before application.
– Use protective gear like gloves and a nose mask to prevent direct touch and inhalation.
– Store in a cool and dry place.
– Keep out of reach of children and pets
– Do not apply in harsh weather conditions
– Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the dosage and application for the best result.
3. Peters Acid Special 21-7-7 – 25 lb
The Peters Acid Special Fertilizer is specifically formulated to help plants that thrive in acidic soil grow healthy. This fertilizer is high in nitrogen, enhancing beautiful bloom and robust vegetative growth alongside phosphorus and potassium that enable strong root and fruit development.
Characteristics:
– High potential acidity for acid-loving crops
– Can offset high water alkalinity or lower pH levels in growing media
– Can be used with a variety of B (Base) formulations
– Contains essential micronutrients and extra iron for greening
– 25-pound bag size
– 21-7-7 formulation
– Excellent choice for Water Types 3 and 4
Formulation Details:
- Formula contains high potential acidity
– Contains essential micronutrients and extra iron
– Can be used with a variety of B (Base) formulations
– 21-7-7 formulation
Application Guide
Target plants: The Peters Acid Special Fertilizer is typically formulated for acid-loving plants such as azaleas, rhododendrons, and blueberries.
Application Forms: This Peters Acid Special Fertilizer is available in liquid form.
How to Apply: Dilute the liquid fertilizer in water as recommended and apply through a garden sprayer or irrigation drip lines.
When to apply: Apply all through the growing cycle of the plant
Precautions:
– Always test the soil pH before application.
– Use protective gear like gloves and a nose mask during handling.
– Store in a cool and dry place.
– Keep out of reach of children and pets
– Do not apply in harsh weather conditions
– Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on dosage and application.
4. Greenway Biotech Organic Sulfur Powder Fertilizer (5 Pounds)
Greenway biotech organic sulfur powder fertilizer is an organic fertilizer rich in elemental sulfur and macro-nutrients to correct sulfur deficiency and provide adequate nutrients for the healthy growth of acid-loving plants. Greenway organic sulfur powder effectively lowers soil pH to a level that allows plants to absorb and utilize nutrients in acidic soils properly. The Greenway organic sulfur fertilizer can be used on various plants, like vegetables and fruits like apples, grapes, strawberries, beans, cherries, berries, peas, and many more.
Characteristics:
– Organic sulfur powder fertilizer
– Elemental 99% sulfur
– Corrects pH level
– Wide usage on various fruits and vegetables
– Contains essential nutrients for plant growth
Formulation Details:
– Package Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 2 inches; 5 pounds
– Date First Available: November 24, 2020
– Manufacturer: Greenway Biotech, Inc.
– ASIN: B08P3SYDJJ
Additional Information:
– Customers find the fertilizer effective for gardening purposes
– Appreciated for quality, consistency, and effectiveness as a repellent against chiggers, ticks, and mites
– Considered high-quality and sturdy
– Many customers consider it a good value for money
Application Guide
Target plants: Typical for all garden crops, like apples, grapes, strawberries, beans, cherries, berries, peas, and many other vegetables and fruits.
Application Forms: Available only in powder form.
Application Rate: 20 pounds per 1000 sq. ft. to lower the pH level by 1.
How to Apply: Incorporate the fertilizer directly into the soil at a rate recommended by the manufacturer. Water the soil immediately after application to activate the fertilizer.
When to apply: Apply Greenway organic sulfur fertilizer during land preparation and garden bed creation.
Precautions:
– Always test the soil pH before application.
– Use protective gear like gloves and a nose mask to prevent direct touch and inhalation.
– Store in a cool and dry place.
– Keep out of reach of children and pets
– Do not apply in harsh weather conditions
– Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the dosage and application.
5. Scotts Garden Pro Miracid Plant Food, 4lb (2 Pack)
The Scotts Garden Pro Miracid Plant Food is a specially formulated water-soluble fertilizer for acid-loving plants such as rhododendrons, azaleas, and hydrangeas. This fertilizer supports plants that thrive in acidic soil, providing them with the necessary nutrients to support the unusual condition of the soil. The Garden Pro Miracid Plant Food contains a blend of essential nutrients and micronutrients like zinc, copper, iron, and magnesium required for beautiful blooms, robust fruit, and strong root development.
Characteristics:
– Water-soluble fertilizer
– Specifically formulated for acid-loving plants like azaleas, hydrangeas, and rhododendrons
– Double feeding action through roots and leaves
– Promotes quick blooms and strong root development
– Comes in a 4-pound box
– Pack of 2
Formulation Details:
– Instantly feeds plants
– Contains essential nutrients for acid-loving plants
– Designed to work quickly
– Easy to use water-soluble formula
Application Guide
Target plants: Perfect for acid-loving plants such as rhododendrons, azaleas, bayberry, dogwood, fir, ferns, blueberries, evergreens, strawberries, camellias, potatoes, hydrangeas, and others.
Fertilizer Forms: Scotts Garden Pro Miracid Plant Food is available in powder form.
How to Apply: Mix the recommended quantity of the fertilizer in water at the recommended dosage by the manufacturer. Apply the fertilizer solution to the plant’s root zone with a garden sprayer or drip irrigation lines for proper usage. Applying this fertilizer through the irrigation system is perfect for garden crops.
When to apply: Apply every two weeks in spring and fall.
Precautions:
– Store in a cool, dry place.
– Apply Miracid Plant Food during the cooler part of the day in stable weather conditions.
– Keep out of reach of pets and children.
– Use protective gear like garden gloves and a dust mask when handling.
6. IMUSTGARDEN AlgoPlus 532 1L Acid Loving Liquid Fertilizer
IMUSTGARDEN AlgoPlus Fertilizer is a balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for plants that love acidic soil. It contains 6 macronutrients and 6 micronutrients that support full bloom and healthy root development.
Characteristics:
– Perfectly balanced and complete formula
– Includes all 12 Essential Nutrients for healthy plant growth
– Contains Macro-Nutrients and Micro-Nutrients
– Water-soluble fertilizer
– Suitable for Acid-Loving Plants
– All-natural and non-toxic ingredients
– Odorless and colorless
Formulation Details:
– N5 – P4 – K6 ratio
– Provides Nitrogen in 3 forms (Nitrates, Ammonium, Urea)
– Free from chlorides, carbonates, and sodium
Additional Information:
– Item Weight: 0.01 ounces
– Date First Available: December 14, 2020
– Manufacturer: Imustgarden
– ASIN: B07WFHZS22
– Recommended usage: twice a week, March-October
Application Guide
Target plants: Specifically for acid-loving plants such as Blueberries and Hydrangeas
Application Forms: It is a liquid fertilizer that is soluble in water.
How to Apply: Mix the 30 ml of the liquid fertilizer in 1 liter of water and spray on the plant root or leaves as a foliar application. Mixing a certain portion in irrigation water will deliver the fertilizer to the root zones of the plant through the drip lines.
When to apply: Apply twice per week in the months of March to October.
Precautions:
– Always test the soil pH before application.
– Use protective gear like gloves and a nose mask to prevent direct touch and inhalation.
– Store in a cool and dry place.
– Keep out of reach of children and pets
– Do not apply in harsh weather conditions
– Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the dosage and application.
7. Espoma Holly-tone Fertilizer for Acid-Loving Plants; 4 lb. Bag
Espoma Holly-Tone fertilizer is a balanced organic fertilizer that contains a unique blend of nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur for the healthy growth of plants that thrive in acid soils. Holly-Tone fertilizer is made from non-toxic ingredients that are safe for the environment while promoting healthy plant growth. Espoma holly-tone fertilizer is formulated for various garden crops, flowering plants, and tree crops that thrive in acidic soils.
Characteristics:
– Original plant food for all acid-loving plants
– Natural organics break down slowly to provide long-lasting nutrients
– Rich blend of natural and organic ingredients
– Enhanced with exclusive Bio-tone formula
– 4-3-4 fertilizer analysis with 5% sulfur
– Environmentally safe with no sludges or toxic ingredients
– Approved for organic gardening
– Made in the USA by Espoma, a leader in natural organics since 1929
Formulation Details:
– Package Dimensions: 15.94 x 14.61 x 4.29 inches; 4 pounds
– Date First Available: August 17, 2020
– Manufacturer: Espoma
- ASIN: B08H5JNY4V
Additional Information:
– Best used in spring and fall on flowering and evergreen shrubs
– Suitable for azaleas, hydrangeas, rhododendrons, blueberries, evergreens, strawberries, camellias, and plants that thrive in acidic soils
- Apply to the soil around the drip line of the plant and water thoroughly
– Ready to use, no mixing required
– Customers find the fertilizer effective for growing plants and consider it a good value
Application Guide
Target plants: Specifically formulated for plants that thrive in acidic soils like rhododendrons, potatoes, azaleas, bayberry, dogwood, fir, ferns, hydrangeas, blueberries, evergreens, strawberries, camellias, and others.
Fertilizer Forms: Available in granule or crumb form, which is often mixed with the soil at a certain rate before applying to the plant as topdressing or potting soil.
How to Apply: Mix 3 cups of Holly-tone per square meter of the topsoil around the plant, and apply around the drip line of the plant. Water the surrounding area immediately after planting, and apply mulch to conserve moisture. For potted plants, mix 2 cups of Holly-tone per cubic foot of soil and apply water evenly.
When to apply: Apply Holly-tone twice per year, in Spring and Fall, on flowering and evergreen shrubs. Apply in the early and late spring for berries.
Precautions:
– Apply Holly-tone during the cooler part of the day in stable weather conditions.
– Always test the soil pH before application.
– Use protective gear like gloves and a nose mask to prevent direct touch and inhalation.
– Store in a cool and dry place.
– Keep out of reach of children and pets
– Do not apply in harsh weather conditions
– Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the dosage and application for the best results.
Organic Fertilizers for Acid-loving Plants
Eggshells, worm castings, and coffee grounds are organic fertilizers that can be applied to plants that thrive in acidic soils; these organic acidic fertilizers are slow-release and can supply nutrients over a long time. Eggshells are exceptionally rich in calcium, this nutrient plays an active role in lowering soil pH. Coffee grounds and worm castings are rich in humus, an organic matter that helps lower soil pH.
How To Apply: Grinded eggshells, worm castings, and coffee grounds are applied as top dressing around the root zone of the plant and water the plant immediately after planting; mulches like plant straws can be applied on them to conserve moisture and regulate the soil temperature.
Applying organic fertilizers to acid-loving plants is highly advantageous; these fertilizers are safe for the environment and do not leach down to comtaminate underground water. As an added benefit, you’ll be repurposing some things you might otherwise throw away, such as coffee grounds and eggshells.
Understanding the Relationship Between Soil pH and Plant Health
Plant and soil health are linked to soil pH. When soil pH moves above the neutral point of 7.0 to the alkaline range, some nutrients get “tied up” so plants can’t utilize them. The same thing happens when soil pH moves below 7.0 to the range known as acidic. When soil pH shifts, quantities of soil nutrients do not necessarily change, but their availability to plants does. Meeting plant needs starts with preparation. With the help of soil amendments, which modify the soil and its pH.
Soil testing is the best place to start. An accurate soil sample from your planting area yields information on soil pH and other key factors for plant health and growth. Soil testing laboratories will also recommend how to amend your specific soil for acid-loving plants. Most plants grow best with soil in the slightly acidic range of 6.0 to 7.0, where major plant nutrients stay readily available. Acid-loving plants need larger quantities of these nutrients, so they thrive when the soil stays near 5.5 pH. At these acidic levels, acid-loving plants can access the nutrients they need for optimal health, beauty, and performance.
Read more: How To Correct Saline And Alkaline Soil For Crop Cultivation
How Do You Reduce Acidity In Soil?
There are many ways to reduce acidity in soil, but the most common way is by adding lime.
Liming is the most common method of reducing soil acidity. Lime is a naturally occurring mineral that can be added to the soil to counteract acidity. However, there are several types of lime available, and it is important to know how much lime your soil needs in order to reduce acidity. Also, you should understand how long it takes for lime to take effect before adding more lime if necessary.
Lime can be applied in two forms: ground limestone or dolomitic lime. Ground limestone dissolves more quickly than dolomitic lime, which dissolves more slowly. Both types of lime are available at local garden centers and nurseries.
Compost is a great way to reduce acidity in the soil. Compost adds nutrients and organic matter to the soil, which helps counteract the effects of acidity on plant growth. To add compost to your garden, you can simply add it directly to your existing soil or mix it together with some sand and topsoil before planting.
For taking care of your garden, including plants and lawn, you should also consider choosing the right garden tools. You can read the source about wide lawn sweepers if you want to keep your lawn beautiful and clean.
Conclusion
Plants that prefer an acidic soil have a harder time getting nutrients from the soil than other plants do, so it’s important to make sure they get enough nutrients through the fertilizer you add to their soil. Fertilizers designed for plants that thrive in acidic soil help neutralize and correct high-pH problems. These plant foods encourage acidic soil and provide added iron and other micronutrients through specialized formulas.