Any experience growing acid-loving plants in alkaline soil? (fertilizer, Hydrangea, hydrangeas)

[Haksel257]

I want to grow some blueberries and serviceberries (and possibly others in this area), but alas, my native soil is slightly alkaline. Anyone have experience with this? Feasible? I'm considering replacing a large chunk with some acid soil, mulching liberally with green pine needles, and spraying with acidic fertilizer as needed. Is any combination of these enough, or am I just fighting too much of an uphill battle? Are there any magical companion plants that can help maintain acidity? Thanks in advance!

EDIT: Just had another idea. Keeping massive amounts of pine needles with water in a barrel, hmmm...

[luis_pr]

I grow azaleas, camellias and hydrangeas in my alkaline soil (soil pH 7.6) by amending the soil in spring (I use garden sulfur with all or aluminum sulfate for hydrangeas only) and optionally one more time in late summer or early fall. The soil pH is reduced somewhat but, if you want to grow blueberries, you really need soil that has a naturally favorable pH of around 4.5 to 5.0. Perhaps it may be easier to grow them in pots with acidic potting soil.

Pine needles only acidify a tiny layer of top soil so they will not help acidify the soil deep where the blueberry roots are.

Mature blueberries need a pot at least 24 inches deep and about 24-30 inches wide. When planting smaller blueberry shrubs, start with a smaller pot and re-pot as it grows. Re-pot in late summer to early fall so the roots have enough time to grow before winter sets in where you live in Ohio.

[movin2Reston]

Planting BLUEBERRY Bushes | How To Lower Soil pH


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDieChbjlaU

[gentlearts]

You could get a soil analysis from your county extension service. It will tell you how to make corrections in your soil to achieve the results you want.

Really, I’d just plant what you want and fertilize regularly with something like Root-tone for acid loving plants.

Also, choose plants for your area.