Tolerant Plants & Trees for Acid Soil

Flowering Dogwood

• Flowering dogwood trees are known for their characteristic blooms, which grace the branches in the spring and summer months. Native to the northeastern United States, the flowering dogwood thrives in moist, fertile soils with pH levels between 5.2 and 6.0, according to the North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension website. The trees have a wide spread and usually grow to between 15 and 25 feet in height. Plant flowering dogwoods in soil sites that receive partial shade.

Pine Trees

• Acidic soil is preferred by most pine tree varieties, including Japanese black, mugo, white, spruce, loblolly, and longleaf pine varieties. According to the Clemson Cooperative Extension website, pine trees can grow anywhere from 4 feet to 100 feet in height, and they thrive in well-drained, fertile soil conditions. Always use slow-release fertilizers for newly planted trees, and use mulch to prevent weed and moisture problems. Although most pine trees can be grown in moderately acidic soil positions, other varieties, such as the Virginia and loblolly pine, will thrive in very acidic pH levels below 5.0.

Rhododendron

• Rhododendrons are among the plants best suited for acidic soils. Not only will rhododendrons tolerate acidic soil conditions, they require them. As noted by the American Rhododendron Society, the best soil pH range for rhododendrons is between 4.5 and 6.0. They will tolerate acidity as low as 3.5, although they may grow a bit slower than usual. Rhododendrons will quickly develop chlorosis if soil pH is too high. This condition is characterized by yellowing leaves and dark green veins.

Blueberries

• If you are interested in growing edible fruit and you have very acidic soil conditions between 4.0 and 5.0, blueberries are a practical plant choice. Blueberries grow best in sunny soil sites with well-drained, fertile soil conditions. According to the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, peat moss is an excellent soil amendment to use for blueberry gardening, since it helps maintain ideal acidity and fertility. Blueberries come in varieties that produce large fruit, which are ideal for desserts and eating fresh, or varieties that generate small fruit, which are more suitable for pancakes and muffins.