Which crop can tolerate a soil pH of 5.5?

Oats are well known for their ability to tolerate lower soil pH levels, including around 5.5. This characteristic is particularly beneficial in farming systems where the soil may not have been limed or amended to raise the pH. Oats can perform reasonably well in acidic soils compared to many other crops, making them a suitable choice for regions or fields where soil pH may pose a challenge for optimal growth.

Barley, corn, and wheat generally prefer a higher pH range for optimal growth and may not thrive as well in more acidic conditions. While they can tolerate some variation in pH, they typically show reduced performance when grown in soils with a pH as low as 5.5. This distinction highlights the importance of selecting the right crop based on specific soil conditions to ensure healthy plant growth and maximize yield.