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What is the pH consideration of soil that restricts the availability of water to tree roots?

  1. Alkaline

  2. Acidic

  3. Neutral

  4. Basic

The correct answer is: Alkaline

The correct consideration regarding soil pH that restricts the availability of water to tree roots is alkaline soil. Alkaline soils typically have a pH above 7. In such conditions, certain nutrients become less soluble and may lead to nutrient deficiencies for trees. Additionally, high pH levels can affect the overall health of the soil microbiome and impede the tree's ability to absorb water. Thus, while acidic soils can also create challenges for tree health, the specific restrictive effect on water availability in this context aligns with the characteristics of alkaline soils. Neutral or basic pH levels generally do not impose the same restrictions on nutrient and water availability as alkaline conditions do.