ISA Certified Arborist Practice Exam

Which characteristic refers to the soil's ability to maintain pH levels?

1. Root Pruning

2. Control of growth

3. Buffering Capacity

4. Meristems

The correct answer is: Buffering Capacity

Buffering Capacity is defined as the ability of soil to resist changes in pH levels. A and B are incorrect as Root Pruning and Control of Growth do not refer to characteristics of soil. Meristems, D, are the tissue in plants where growth occurs, but this does not have an impact on a soil's pH levels. The term Buffering Capacity can also be used to describe the soil's ability to maintain nutrient levels and resist changes in them as well. Overall, Buffering Capacity is a key characteristic of soils and important for plant growth and nutrient availability.