On the Junipers

Question

I tested soil around the juniper. The pH readings are:

#1 is 3.0
#2 is 5.0
#3 is 5.5
#4 is 4.5
#5 is 8.5

#1 is dead. Can you help me? Thank you.

Answer 1

It appears that your soil is acidic, and in the case of #1 & # 4, very acidic. When soil is very acidic, it can be hard for plants to take up the types of nutrients they need. #5 is rather alkaline, which can also cause issues. You need to lower the acidity of the soil where the pH is low and raise it where the pH is high. Ideally, for most plants, you wants a pH of 5-7. These articles will help with what you can do to regulate your soil pH: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/raise-acid-level-soil.htm, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/lower-acid-soil.htm