What does a pH value lower than 7 indicate about soil?

A pH value lower than 7 indicates that the soil is acidic. Soil pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of the soil, with values below 7 representing increasing acidity. Various factors can contribute to soil acidity, including the presence of organic matter, leaching of basic cations, and the utilization of fertilizers that increase the hydrogen ion concentration in the soil.

Understanding soil pH is crucial for various agricultural and horticultural practices, as it affects nutrient availability and microbial activity, both of which are vital for healthy plant growth. Acidic soils can often lead to nutrient deficiencies or toxicities that can hinder plant development, necessitating appropriate amendments to rectify the pH if desired for specific crops.