How does soil pH influence pest and plant health?

Soil pH plays a crucial role in influencing both nutrient availability and pest susceptibility. When the pH level of the soil is within an optimal range for specific plants, essential nutrients are more readily accessible to the roots. Conversely, if the pH levels are too high or too low, certain nutrients may become less available, potentially leading to nutrient deficiencies that can compromise plant health.

Additionally, the stress from nutrient imbalances often makes plants more susceptible to pests and diseases. For instance, if a plant is stressed due to inadequate nutrient availability from unfavorable pH levels, it may not be able to mount an effective defense against pest attacks. This relationship indicates that maintaining appropriate soil pH is vital not only for supporting plant growth but also for enhancing plants' natural resilience to pests.

The other options do not fully capture the comprehensive impact of soil pH. While it does influence plant species suitability, it primarily does so through nutrient availability and overall health rather than a direct determinant alone. Claiming that soil pH has no impact on plant growth overlooks its significant role in nutrient dynamics. Lastly, soil pH does not control sunlight levels, as light penetration is more affected by physical factors like plant density and canopy structure rather than chemical properties of the soil