Will Seeds Grow in Soil Mixed With Vinegar?

Vinegar

• Vinegar is an acid with a pH ranging from 2.4 to 4. It's this acidic nature that makes it dangerous for seeds trying to take root in soil. However, it is possible for seeds to grow in vinegar-treated soil.

Soil Conditions

• Soil that is too acidic benefits from the addition of alkaline additives such as lime and calcium carbonate to bring the pH in balance. Likewise, vinegar can actually be beneficial to soil and seeds when the growing environment is too alkaline. Adding diluted vinegar to soil will lower pH and may render the soil more hospitable to seed-growing conditions. However, adjusting soil pH is a tricky procedure, requiring patience, time and frequent testing.

Ideal pH

• Whether your seeds will grow in vinegar-infused soil depends on several factors. The first issue is just how basic or acidic the soil was originally. Test the soil before making any adjustment. Second, the concentration of vinegar and its further filtration through the soil will lessen its impact on the seeds. Finally, just what type of seeds you want to grow can determine their likelihood of survival in the vinegar-enhanced soil. Most seeds germinate in neutral environments between 5.8 and 7. Some plants, however, like acidic soils. Plants that like acidic soil include azaleas, rhododendron and blueberries.

Acid Effect

• Too much acid in the soil will kill your seeds, however vinegar's long-term effect on soil is negligible. Because it is water soluble, soil often returns to its previous pH level within a short period of time.