In this video, we check in on Marvin, a corn plant (Dracaena fragrans), who we treated with lime in Part 2 in order to make his soil more alkaline. This video shows how to use a soil pH testing kit to check soil pH. The video also talks about why you want to check soil pH. If the soil pH isn’t correct, the plant won’t take up any nutrients. See how Marvin’s soil pH is now more alkaline and a better place for him to grow.
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Hello and welcome to Healthy Houseplants, where we teach you all about gardening in the great indoors. Today’s video is sponsored by our Amazon affiliate link, which you’ll see in the description below. You’ll also find links to other videos that I mentioned during this video.
Today, we are here for part 3 of how to change house plant soil pH. As mentioned in the prior video, pH is very important to have right for your house plant and the type of your house plant. If it’s not correct, you will encounter growth issues.
This plant, a corn plant (Dracaena fragrance), has had a little bit of ups and downs due to pH being off. In the previous video, we added some lime to its soil, and hopefully, that has made the soil go to a more alkaline side because prior it was very acidic. Dracaenas prefer a slightly alkaline environment.
Since we last did this in January, we’ve given it enough time for the lime to settle in and change the soil pH. Today, I’m going to use a different soil testing kit. There are various kits available; this is an AK you grow kit that uses soil test strips, unlike the previous one that used a vial. This special solution looks like water but is probably a combination of distilled water.
I’m going to pour it into a medicine bottle for easy shaking. After mixing it well, I’ll take some samples from the soil, ensuring to dig down a bit to avoid disturbing the roots too much. This way, we can accurately assess the soil pH of this plant.
Now, I’ve got a nice amount of soil. I will add it to the mixture and shake it for 30 seconds while discussing the importance of pH. If the pH is not correct for your house plant, even with great fertilizers and soil, the plant cannot absorb nutrients properly, leading to growth problems.
After shaking, I’ll remove the lid and insert a soil test strip for 30 seconds. Once it starts to change color, I’ll compare it to the color chart provided with the kit. It seems we’ve corrected the issue; the plant is now closer to neutral, sitting around a 7 on the pH scale, which is ideal for Dracaenas.
In conclusion, we have successfully adjusted the pH, but the plant has also outgrown its pot, so repotting will be the next step. Thank you for stopping by today! Please leave any comments about indoor gardening tutorials you’d like to see, and remember to like, comment, subscribe, and share this video.
Frequently Asked Questions about Changing House Plant Soil pH
What is the importance of soil pH for house plants?
Soil pH is crucial because it affects nutrient availability. If the pH is not correct for your specific house plant, the plant cannot absorb nutrients, leading to growth issues.
How can I test the soil pH of my house plants?
You can use a soil testing kit that includes test strips or a vial solution. Make sure to take samples from the soil near the roots for an accurate reading.
What should I do if my plant’s pH is too acidic?
If your plant’s pH is too acidic, you can amend the soil with lime to increase alkalinity, allowing the plant to absorb nutrients more effectively.
How often should I check the soil pH?
It’s advisable to check the soil pH every few months, especially if your plant is susceptible to pH issues, or after repotting.
What are the signs that my plant may have a pH imbalance?
Signs of pH imbalance include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and nutrient deficiencies, even if you are fertilizing properly.
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