Acidity and Soil: Why These Levels Matter
“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.”
If you have acidic soil in your garden (or have houseplants potted in acidic soil), don't despair! There are many beautiful houseplants that thrive in acidic conditions and prefer them to less acidic ones. Here are a few of our favorites:
African violets (Saintpaulia) are popular houseplants prized for their velvety, colorful flowers that come in a wide array of shades, including shades of red, purple, blue, and pink, as well as bicolors and multicolors.
Native to the rainforests of eastern Africa, African violets thrive in environments with high humidity and bright, indirect light. They prefer acidic, well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. To maintain optimal soil conditions, it is recommended to use a soil mix specifically formulated for African violets or to add peat moss or perlite to regular potting soil to increase acidity and drainage. When watering African violets, it is crucial to avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can lead to spotting and fungal issues. Instead, water should be applied directly to the soil, preferably using a watering can with a long spout to prevent splashing. It is important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
African violets benefit from regular fertilization during their active growing season, which typically spans from spring to fall. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength can be applied every two weeks to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. To encourage bushier growth and more flowers, African violets can be propagated by leaf cuttings. Simply take a healthy leaf with a petiole, and insert it into a well-draining soil mix. Keep the cutting moist and provide bright, indirect light until roots develop.
Azaleas: are beautiful flowering shrubs that can be grown as houseplants. They are native to Asia and North America, and come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, white, and purple. Azaleas prefer acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5, and well-drained soil that is high in organic matter. They require regular watering, but should not be allowed to sit in water. Azaleas also need bright, indirect light, and should be protected from direct sunlight. When grown as houseplants, azaleas should be fertilized monthly with a balanced fertilizer, and should be repotted every two to three years. With proper care, azaleas can live for many years and produce beautiful flowers for many seasons.
🌺
🌺
Here are some additional tips for growing azaleas as houseplants:
Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the root ball of the azalea.
Use a soil mix that is specifically formulated for azaleas or rhododendrons.
Water the azalea regularly, but do not allow it to sit in water.
Fertilize the azalea monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
Repot the azalea every two to three years.
Prune the azalea after it has finished flowering to maintain its shape and size.
Protect the azalea from direct sunlight and cold drafts.
Begonias are a diverse and captivating genus encompassing over 1,800 species of flowering and foliage plants. Native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas, they offer an array of forms, colors, and textures that have made them popular ornamental plants worldwide. Begonias thrive in acidic soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. This pH level is vital for the optimal uptake of nutrients, fostering healthy growth and vibrant foliage. To maintain this ideal pH, gardeners can incorporate organic matter such as peat moss or compost into the soil, as these materials help to lower and stabilize the pH over time.
Flowering Begonias produce a stunning array of blossoms in various shapes, sizes, and colors. They can be single or double, and range from delicate pastels to vibrant hues of pink, red, orange, and yellow. Some popular flowering varieties include the tuberous begonia (Begonia tuberhybrida), known for its large, showy flowers, and the angel-wing begonia (Begonia coccinea) with its cascading clusters of red or pink blossoms.
Foliage Begonias, while not producing significant flowers, are prized for their captivating leaves. These can be ovate, heart-shaped, or deeply lobed, and often display intricate patterns, variegation, or metallic sheens. The rex begonia (Begonia rex) is a prime example, showcasing its striking, velvety leaves in shades of green, red, silver, and purple.
Begonias are relatively low-maintenance plants, making them suitable for gardeners of all levels. They prefer bright, indirect light and regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. High humidity is also beneficial for their growth, as many species originate from humid environments.
With their diverse range of forms and colors, Begonias add a touch of elegance and charm to any garden or indoor space. Whether grown for their exquisite flowers or striking foliage, these versatile plants are sure to impress and delight.
These are only a few of the houseplants that enjoy a higher level of acidity. With a little research and
As advocates of green living, we at The ZEN Succulent would love to hear your stories about how indoor plants have influenced your life. Share your experiences in the comments below or tag us on social media with your indoor garden photos. Let’s spread the word about the healing power of plants!
Words By The ZEN Succulent
Inspiring everyone to embrace the world of plants, our collection features articles penned by The Sill's team of seasoned plant experts. Covering a range of plant care topics, because we truly believe Plants Bring Life, Joy and Inspirations™ .