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PH Effect on the Growth of Bean Plants

The pH reading for soil is a measure of its acid-forming hydrogen ion activity. On the pH scale, which ranges from zero to 14, a reading below 7 is acidic and a reading above 7 is alkaline. Optimal bean growth occurs in soil with a pH between 5.8 and 6.5. When pH is outside of that range, beans may not grow properly.
  1. Manganese Deficiency

    • Beans raised in soil with pH higher than 6.5 may experience a manganese deficiency that impacts bean production, according to the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension.

    Iron Deficiency

    • Soil with a high pH could also cause iron deficiency in bean plants. This may interfere with proper photosynthesis.

    Aluminum Toxicity

    • Soil with a pH below 5 may encourage plants to take in a toxic amount of aluminum, which reduces root growth.

    Manganese Toxicity

    • Highly acidic soil can also lead to a toxic amount of manganese in bean plants, which will limit the uptake of other important minerals.

    Reduced Disease Resistance

    • Beans grown in soil with a pH lower than 5.8 have a greater incidence of disease.

    How to Adjust pH Level

    • Change the pH level gradually. Agricultural limestone or wood ashes will reduce soil acidity. Aluminum sulfate or peat moss can help reduce soil alkalinity.