Understanding Soil pH Effects On Citrus Root Morphology And Nutrient Uptake Efficiency

Citrus is a major global fruit crop grown in more than 130 countries, with great economic and nutritional importance. Production surpassed 105 million metric tons in the early 2000s, but growth has been hindered over the past two decades by diseases, nutrient issues, and other environmental stresses that reduce yield and fruit quality. Although Florida has ideal soils and climate for citrus, its industry has sharply declined due to Huanglongbing (citrus greening), caused by the bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus.

A new study, “The Influence of Soil pH on Citrus Root Morphology and Nutrient Uptake Efficiency,” highlights the critical role soil pH plays in determining citrus root development, nutrient absorption, and overall tree health—offering valuable insights for growers facing unprecedented production challenges.

The study examines citrus root morphology across a range of soil pH levels, analyzing how different conditions influence root architecture, growth patterns, and overall nutrient uptake. Findings indicate that soil pH plays a crucial role in determining root elongation, branching, and absorption efficiency of essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.When soil pH falls outside the optimal range, citrus roots exhibit reduced growth and efficiency, limiting the plant’s nutrient uptake capacity and ultimately affecting fruit yield and quality.

• Researchers report that maintaining an optimal soil pH:
• Enhances root morphology and fine-root density
• Improves uptake of key nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and micronutrients
• Supports greater tolerance to stresses including disease pressure and nutrient imbalance

The study emphasizes that targeted soil amendments, improved monitoring, and region-specific management practices can help stabilize citrus productivity and support long-term sustainability of the industry.

The results of this study have significant implications for citrus production, particularly in regions where soil pH variability poses challenges to sustainable agriculture. By adjusting soil pH through proper amendments, farmers can enhance nutrient availability, optimize root function, and improve overall crop resilience.

Dr. Kadyampakeni is an Associate Professor of Soil, Water, and Ecosystems Sciences at the Citrus Research and Education Center, University of Florida. He specializes in soil and water management and conservation, nutrient management, irrigation and drainage management, crop production and soil and crop modeling.

Duplicate Sambani, the lead author, is a PhD student at the University of Florida, majoring in Soil, Water and Ecosystem Sciences. Diane Bright is a Biological Scientist in Citrus Pathology. Dr. Tripti Vashisth is an Associate Professor in Horticultural Sciences at the Citrus Research and Education Center, University of Florida, whose research focuses on citrus production needs and implementing horticultural practices to improve citrus production, tree health and fruit quality.

About The American Society for Horticultural Science
Established in 1903, the American Society for Horticultural Science is recognized around the world as one of the most respected and influential professional societies for horticultural scientists. ASHS is committed to promoting and encouraging national and international interest in scientific research and education in all branches of horticulture.

Comprised of thousands of members worldwide, ASHS represents a broad cross-section of the horticultural community — scientists, educators, students, landscape and turf managers, government, extension agents and industry professionals. ASHS members focus on practices and problems in horticulture: breeding, propagation, production and management, harvesting, handling and storage, processing, marketing and use of horticultural plants and products. For more information, visit ashs.org.