Pine plantation soil Q

[Capt. Blye]

In Wisconsin, what can be expected of the soil in a 30-40 year old pine plantations' soil? 30 years of needles seems like a lot. Is the soil acidic/alkeline? What can I recomend to my customer, as they would like a backyard w/o pine trees. i.e. grass and birch/cherry/maple. WHAT OF THE SOIL/ NEED INPUT.

 

[chad556]

No way of knowing without a soil test. Yes, pine needles would make the soil slightly more acidic but there is no way to know if the soil was acidic in the first place or if it was alkaline and the pine needles were actually helping keep it in the ideal slightly acidic zone. An investment in a soil pH tester would tell you for sure. As far as grass goes you would need to select the right kind of grass for the pH of the soil. For example if the test comes up with a ph of 6.5 or 7 something like Kentucky Bluegrass would work out well but a more acidic soil in the 5-6 range would favor a more acid tolerant species like fescue or perennial ryegrass which has a wider tolerance for soil pH. Trees like slightly acid soils too but but if its too acidic then you will need to amend the soil with lime to make the growing conditions favorable.

 

[rarefish383]

Well put, Chad.

 

[Ed Roland]

Say there, Captain, the leaves of any tree deposited and left, pine included, will encourage microbial growth in the soil. This soil activity generates acid and will lower ph. Real research has dispelled the old myth that pine needles are inherently highly acidic. Once decomposed, needles are as neutral as any other composted material.
Bottom line: The microbes feeding on leaf litter tends to lower ph.

If the myth were true then stands of pine would acidify their own soil to the point toxicity. It simply does not happen.

 

[Capt. Blye]

Say there, Captain, the leaves of any tree deposited and left, pine included, will encourage microbial growth in the soil. This soil activity generates acid and will lower ph. Real research has dispelled the old myth that pine needles are inherently highly acidic. Once decomposed, needles are as neutral as any other composted material.
Bottom line: The microbes feeding on leaf litter tends to lower ph.

If the myth were true then stands of pine would acidify their own soil to the point toxicity. It simply does not happen.

Enlightening and Educational. Mythes you say? OK thanks for the reply.