These 12 plants love NC's soil acidity

Last Updated on: 9th December 2023, 01:35 pm

Don’t battle your soil acidity–grow acid-loving plants, instead!

Acidic soil poses a challenge for many avid gardeners in northeastern North Carolina (zones 7 and 8). The presence of pine trees in our region contributes to the increased acidity of the soil. Thus,it may not be suitable for all plants.

This article will explain the science of soil acidity and give you some excellent options that can breathe color and life into your landscape.

Understanding Soil Acidity

Acidic soil is soil with a pH level below 7.0, which can hinder the growth of certain plants. Pine trees, common in northeastern North Carolina, contribute to soil acidity by shedding their needles, which release acidic compounds as they decompose. Understanding soil acidity and its effect on plant growth is essential for a successful garden.

Adapt Your Garden to Acidic Soil by Choosing the Best Plants for Your Soil Acidity

By selecting plants suitable for acidic soil, you can create a thriving garden that complements our region’s unique soil conditions. You may also manage acidic soil through amending, proper watering, and fertilization.

Top Twelve Plants for Acidic Soil in Northeastern North Carolina

Here are twelve of the best plants to try to add color and charm to your landscape plan.

1 – Dogwood (Cornus florida)

Dogwoods are a beautiful addition to your garden, providing stunning spring blooms and vibrant fall foliage. To plant a dogwood, choose a well-drained spot with partial shade or full sun. Space trees 15-20 feet apart to ensure they have plenty of room to grow.

Keep your dogwood healthy by watering it regularly, especially during dry periods. Applying mulch around the base will help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches, and to promote a healthy, well-structured canopy.

2 – Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

Red maples are a popular choice for their brilliant fall color and adaptability to various soil types. Plant red maples in well-drained soil in full sun, spacing them at least 30-40 feet apart to accommodate their mature size.

Red maples are relatively low-maintenance trees that require minimal pruning. Water them deeply during periods of drought to ensure their roots receive adequate moisture. Apply mulch around the tree’s base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, promoting a healthy root system.

3 – Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana)

Sweetbay magnolias are known for their fragrant, creamy-white flowers and attractive, evergreen foliage. Plant them in moist, well-draining acidic soil in full sun or partial shade, and space trees 10-15 feet apart.

Maintain consistently moist soil, especially during the first few years, to establish a strong root system. Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and remove dead or damaged branches.

4 – Azaleas (Rhododendron spp.)

Azaleas are a popular choice for their stunning spring blooms and evergreen foliage. Plant azaleas in well-drained acidic soil in partial shade, spacing shrubs 2-6 feet apart, depending on the variety.

Azaleas require consistent moisture; water them during dry spells to keep them hydrated. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Prune the shrubs after flowering to maintain their shape and encourage bushier growth.

5 – Rhododendrons (Rhododendron spp.)

Rhododendrons are beloved for their impressive spring blooms and striking evergreen foliage. Plant them in well-drained acidic soil in partial shade, spacing shrubs 4-12 feet apart, depending on the variety.

Like azaleas, rhododendrons need consistent moisture. Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune the shrubs after flowering to maintain their shape and encourage bushier growth.

6 – Blueberries (Vaccinium spp.)

Blueberries are not only delicious but also provide a beautiful landscape addition with their white spring flowers, summer fruit, and vibrant fall foliage. Plant blueberries in well-drained acidic soil in full sun or partial shade, spacing bushes 4-5 feet apart.

Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during fruiting, to ensure a bountiful harvest. Apply a layer of mulch around the bushes to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Prune in late winter to encourage new growth and better fruit production.

7 – Ferns (Various species)

Ferns add a lush, tropical feel to your garden with their diverse shapes and textures. Plant them in well-drained acidic soil in partial shade, spacing them according to their mature size, which varies between species.

Ferns need consistent moisture; water them during dry spells to keep them hydrated. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Remove dead fronds as needed to maintain a tidy appearance and promote healthy growth.

8 – Hostas (Hosta spp.)

Hostas are valued for their attractive foliage and ability to thrive in shady spots. Plant hostas in well-drained acidic soil in partial to full shade, spacing plants 1-3 feet apart, depending on the variety.

Water hostas regularly, especially during dry periods, to ensure they receive adequate moisture. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Remove dead leaves and flowers as needed to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance.

9 – Japanese Anemones (Anemone hupehensis)

Japanese anemones offer delicate, late-summer blooms that brighten up shady garden spots. Plant them in well-drained acidic soil in partial shade, spacing plants 18-24 inches apart.

Keep the soil consistently moist to support healthy growth. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Cut back the plants after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy appearance.

10 – Impatiens (Impatiens walleriana)

Impatiens are popular bedding plants known for their profuse, colorful blooms. Plant them in well-drained acidic soil in partial to full shade, spacing plants 8-12 inches apart.

Impatiens prefer consistently moist soil, so water them regularly. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and continuous blooming. Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain a tidy appearance.

11 – Begonias (Begonia spp.)

Begonias offer a wide range of colorful flowers and attractive foliage, making them a versatile choice for any garden. Plant them in well-drained acidic soil in partial shade, spacing plants 6-12 inches apart, depending on the variety.Care Tips

Water begonias regularly, allowing the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season to encourage strong growth and continuous blooming. Remove spent flowers to promote more blooms and maintain a tidy appearance.

12 – Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides)

Coleus are prized for their vibrant, patterned foliage, adding a splash of color to shady spots in the garden. Plant them in well-drained acidic soil in partial to full shade, spacing plants 12-18 inches apart.

Water coleus regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth. Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushier growth and maintain a compact, attractive form.

The Takeaway: Acidic Soil May Challenge You, But You Have Many Lovely Landscape Plant Options

Embrace the unique soil conditions of northeastern North Carolina by selecting plants that thrive in acidic soil. Remember to test your soil’s acidity and adjust your plant choices accordingly. With the right selection of plants and proper care, your garden can flourish in our region’s distinct environment.

Tayloe’s Lawn Care Services is your local expert for maintaining beautiful, healthy lawn. We offer a range of services, including lawn maintenance, exterior pressure washing, pine straw delivery, and more. Contact us today for more information or follow us on Facebook for regular updates or landscaping and gardening tips.

Author Profile

Deborah Tayloe

Deborah Tayloe is the CEO and co-founder of Tayloe's Lawn Care Services, LLC. She has a B.S.Ed and holds certificates in soil and water management and herbology from accredited programs.