Major affects of soil acidification

The optimum soil pH for plant production is one that is slightly acidic, at this pH soil microorganisms are most active and plant nutrients are readily available. At extremes of high (alkaline) and low (acid) pH this delicate balance is disturbed and plant nutrients that were in adequate supply can become either deficient or toxic to plant growth. Some essential nutrients such as phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, and molybdenum become unavailable if the soil pH becomes too acid. Acid conditions will result in a lowering of plant production in farming systems. This will result in reduced profitability and an increased reliance on fertilisers to sustain any form of productive agriculture. Correcting soil pH to a more favourable pH range will increase the availability of essential nutrients.