What is a consequence of having soil that is too acidic or too alkaline?

Soil pH plays a critical role in the availability of nutrients to plants. When soil is too acidic (low pH) or too alkaline (high pH), it can lead to nutrient imbalances or deficiencies. This occurs because certain essential nutrients become less available to plants at extreme pH levels. For example, in acidic soils, nutrients like calcium and magnesium may become less available, while elements such as aluminum can become toxic. Conversely, in alkaline soils, nutrients like iron, manganese, and phosphorus can be bound in forms that plants cannot uptake effectively. Consequently, an imbalanced pH tends to keep these nutrients from reaching plants, impeding their growth and health. This highlights the importance of maintaining optimal soil pH for effective nutrient absorption and plant health.