Examining the adaptability of soil pH to soil dynamics using different methodologies: A concise review

Abstract

Soil pH is crucial to soil health, influencing nutrient availability, microbial activity, and plant growth. This review aims to assess the adaptability of soil pH under changing soil conditions by analyzing natural and human factors. Information was gathered from various sources, including peer-reviewed articles, field studies, and recent advances in soil science. The study explores how natural factors such as parent material, climate, and vegetation establish baseline soil pH, while human activities such as intensive farming and land-use changes further modify it, often leading to soil acidification or alkalinization. Traditional management methods like lime application, organic amendments, and crop rotation are reviewed for their effectiveness in stabilizing soil pH and their limitations under varying soil conditions. The review also explores modern technological innovations like precision agriculture, which uses soil sensors and variable rate technology for targeted pH management, and biological approaches, such as microbial inoculants, to enhance nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition. Integrating these traditional and contemporary approaches is essential for sustainable soil pH management and long-term productivity. The findings highlight the need for a holistic approach that combines historical knowledge with emerging technologies to promote sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation. © 2024, Editorial board of Journal of Experimental Biology and Agricultural Sciences. All rights reserved.