This guide offers a quick introduction to understanding soil texture and the varying levels of alkalinity, acidity, and salinity in soil.
When it comes to planting wildflowers and native species, understanding your soil is key to fostering healthy growth. Understanding your soil type and health is fundamental. You can have a soil test done to determine pH levels, nutrient content, and organic matter. Some state agencies and universities provide soil testing for the basic soil test items. Here is a link for more information about soil testing provided by USU: USU Testing Information You can also check with your local NRCS office for more information on soil testing.
Here’s a quick reference for soil textures and pH levels:
Soil Textures
Soil texture refers to the size of mineral particles within the soil. The three main soil textures are:
Sandy Soil: Sandy soil has larger particles that are loosely packed. It drains quickly and warms up fast in spring, making it suitable for drought-tolerant plants but requiring more frequent watering.
Clay Soil: Clay soil has very fine particles that hold water and nutrients well but can become compacted. It tends to drain poorly and can be slow to warm up in spring, often benefiting from soil amendments like organic matter.
Loam Soil: Loam soil is a balanced mixture of sand, silt, and clay particles. It retains moisture while allowing for good drainage and is generally ideal for most plants, including wildflowers.
Soil pH
Soil pH measures the acidity or alkalinity of the soil on a scale from 0 to 14:
Acidic Soil (pH below 7): Acidic soil is high in hydrogen ions and may range from mildly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) to strongly acidic (pH below 5.5). It tends to have limited nutrient availability however, some plants like Black-eyed Susan, Great Basin Wildrye and Douglas Rabbitbrush can flourish in it. Here is a link to the species we carry that tolerate at least some acid level in soil: Shop Acidic Tolerant Species.
Neutral Soil (pH around 7): Neutral soil is considered balanced and is suitable for a wide range of plants. Most wildflowers and native species prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
Alkaline Soil (pH above 7): Alkaline soil is low in hydrogen ions and may range from mildly alkaline (pH 7.5-8.5) to strongly alkaline (pH above 8.5). It often contains more calcium and magnesium. A few alkali tolerant species include: Timothy Grass, Shadscale Saltbush and Yellow Blossom Sweetclover. Here is a link to the species we carry that tolerate at least some alkali level in soil: Shop Alkali Tolerant Species.
Other Considerations
Saline Soil: Saline soil has high levels of soluble salts, which can hinder plant growth by drawing water away from roots. It's common in arid regions or where irrigation leaves behind mineral deposits. Sulfur Buckwheat, Alkali Sacaton and Gooseberryleaf Globemallow are known for being salt tolerant. Here is a link to the species we carry that tolerate at least some saline level in soil: Shop Salt Tolerant Species.
Understanding your soil’s texture and pH allows you to select the right plants and provide the necessary amendments for successful growth. At Wildland Seed Co, we offer native seeds suited to various soil types and pH levels, ensuring your planting projects thrive in their natural habitats.
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