Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Proper moisture is another very important ingredient needed in soil
to support healthy plants. The water in the soil encases the soil
particles and dissolves them; this enables the vegetable plant to
absorb the nutrients through the water. If the soil gets too wet, it
becomes saturated and does not leave any room for the oxygen and
carbon dioxide to reach the plant roots or for the water to dissolve
the soil particles. The plants are left nutrient-deficient. Your soil
needs a healthy balance of soil particles, organic material, water,
and air circulation so plants can get the oxygen, moisture, and nutri-
ents needed to grow to maturity.
When used in containers, the soil has more restrictions. So a light-
weight soil mix is important to allow proper movement of the water
and air. This will ensure the plants get what they need.
Soil is made up of soil particles, organic matter, humus, water, and
air. Soil particles are mineral materials that have been broken down
into pieces smaller than pebbles. The organic matter and humus are
made from decaying organisms, mainly plants that are at various
stages of decomposition. About half of soil is actually solid; the rest
is filled with air and water.
Air space is needed so that oxygen and carbon dioxide can move
freely in and out of the soil; both are needed for vegetable plant
roots to grow. Clay soil can impede airflow, as it is heavy and soil
can get compacted by machinery or by being walked on. Either prac-
tice can inhibit good air circulation in the soil-another reason to have
designated pathways to prevent your garden beds from becoming
compacted.
The Four Basic Types of Soil
Now that you know more about what soil is and what your plants
need to grow well, it is time to take a look at your own garden soil.
