Forest soil pH in China decreased by 0.36 units on average in the periods between 1981–1985 and 2006–2010.
The strongest acidification occurred in southwest China and/or semi-Luvisols.
Atmospheric deposition contributed 84% to the H+ production causing forest soil acidification.
H+ production induced by forest growth contributed 16% to the forest soil acidification.
On average, base cation deposition neutralized 31% of the potential acid input.