Lime lovers and lime haters
Different plants require different pH levels within their growing medium (be that the soil or a potting compost). Mostly plants are happy with a neutral pH between pH6.5 and 7, however others prefer more acidic or more alkaline conditions.
Those preferring more acidic conditions are called ericaceous, acid loving, lime hating or calcifuge plants. They prefer a pH lower than 6.5 and will not grow in alkaline soil.
Those preferring more alkaline conditions are called lime loving or calcicole plants. They prefer a pH higher than 7 and will not grow in acidic soil.
Below are examples of each type of plant:
Lime lovers
- Celery
- Daffodils
- Lettuce
- Brassicas (cabbage crops)
Lime haters
- Rhododendrons
- Ericas (heathers)
- Blueberries
- Camellias
- Azaleas