Which soil condition commonly triggers iron deficiency symptoms in Florida landscapes?

• A. High pH reduces iron availability.
• B. Low pH increases iron availability.
• C. Excess potassium reduces iron uptake.
• D. Excess magnesium prevents iron uptake.

Answer: (A)

Iron availability in soil is highly governed by pH. When soil pH is high (alkaline), iron becomes insoluble and difficult for roots to absorb, so plants show iron deficiency symptoms even if iron is present. Florida landscapes often have alkaline conditions due to limestone in the soil and irrigation practices, which explains why iron chlorosis (yellowing between leaf veins, especially on new growth) is common there. Therefore, the soil condition that triggers these symptoms is high soil pH. At lower pH, iron is more soluble and available, so deficiency is less likely. While other factors like excess potassium or magnesium can influence nutrient uptake to some degree, the primary and most consistent trigger in Florida is the elevated pH reducing iron availability.