Potential Hydrogen (pH) in plants is a gauge that monitors how well nutrient uptake is going. Much like humans, plants require a specific level of pH for them to grow. pH levels can be acidic, alkali, and neutral. Depending on pH level, plants absorb an exact nutrient.
In some instances, if pH levels are at the extremes, it might cause problems in the long run. For example, if the soil is too acidic, there could be an increase in toxic elements. Plant production and water use will decrease along with the availability of essential nutrients. Meanwhile, if pH levels become too basic, it could affect metallic nutrients such as iron, zinc, and manganese.
Imbalances in pH levels can cause sickness in plants. Iron chlorosis, or the yellowing of leaves, is one sign that the pH level is too alkaline. If the setup is too acidic, plants could suffer from stunting and might affect them in reaching their full potential.