pH value

The pH value indicates how acidic or alkaline the substrate (soil) is.

Acidic: pH < 7

Neutral: pH = 7

Alkaline: pH > 7

Most houseplants prefer slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5 – 6.5).

Why is the pH value important?

✅ **Nutrient uptake**

✅ **Healthy roots**

✅ **Active soil organisms**

Only within the correct pH range can plants grow optimally, stay vital, and absorb nutrients like potassium, magnesium, or iron.

How do you measure the pH value?

1. pH test strips

2. Digital pH meter

💡 Tip: If you have problems (e.g., yellow leaves), it's worth checking the pH value.

How can the pH value be adjusted?

Is the soil too acidic?

🔼 Work in some garden lime or water with lime-rich water.

Is the soil too alkaline?

🔽 Use peat-based soil or a few drops of lemon juice in the watering can.

⚠️ Always make changes gradually!

You can also buy pH reducers or pH increasers commercially. Simply use them according to the package instructions!

pH preferences of typical houseplants:

Monstera: 5.5 – 6.5

Ficus: 6.0 – 6.5

Orchid (Phalaenopsis): 5.0 – 6.0 

Aloe Vera: 6.0 – 7.0 

Bird's Nest Fern:  5.0 – 6.0 

Alocasia: 5.5 – 6.5 

Philodendron: 5.0 – 6.0

Begonia: 5.5 – 6.2

Epipremnum (Pothos): 6.0 – 6.5 
Anthurium: 5.5 - 6.5

Syngonium: 5.5 - 6.5

A pH value in the ideal range helps your houseplants absorb nutrients optimally and grow vigorously. Regular checks are worthwhile – especially for sensitive species!