Which two levels are most important to measure in a soil analysis?

Measuring pH and salt levels in soil analysis is crucial for several reasons. The pH of the soil influences nutrient availability, microbial activity, and overall plant health. Most plants thrive in a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5, where essential nutrients are most accessible. If the pH is too high or too low, it can lead to nutrient deficiencies or toxicities, severely impacting plant growth.

Salt levels are also vital to assess because high salinity can negatively affect plant health by creating osmotic stress, making it difficult for plants to absorb water. Excessive salts can also lead to ion toxicity, damaging root systems and impairing nutrient uptake.

Thus, monitoring both pH and salt levels helps ensure optimal conditions for plant growth, making them key components of soil analysis for arborists and land managers.