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Soil

Soil, by definition, is a earthly compound comprised of biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) matter that is formed in several layers over millions of years. It is the very component of the Earth that plants need to root themselves and grow in in order to feed all animal life. There are many different types of soil across the globe for each continent and biome, and each type has its characteristics that depict what plants can grow where, when, and how. Questions and answers about soil can be asked and answered here.

10,730 Questions

How does phosphorus go from the rocks into the soil?

Phosphorus is released from rocks over time through weathering processes, such as rainwater and wind erosion breaking down the rock. Once released, phosphorus can be carried by water or deposited onto the soil. Microorganisms in the soil play a role in breaking down organic matter and releasing phosphorus for plant uptake.

Are soils with high Sand content more prone to become eroded verses clay content?

Yes, soils with high sand content are generally more prone to erosion compared to soils with high clay content. This is because sand particles are larger and less cohesive, making them easier to displace and transport during rainfall or wind events. Clay particles, on the other hand, are smaller and more cohesive, which helps them retain water and resist erosion.

What lies below the soil layer?

Below the soil layer, you typically find the subsoil, which consists of weathered rock, minerals, and organic matter. Further down, you would encounter the bedrock, which is the solid rock layer beneath the subsoil. Within the bedrock are various geological formations and structures that make up the Earth's crust.

Which is a characteristic of soil with a high percentage of clay?

Soil with a high percentage of clay tends to have poor drainage due to its small particle size which leads to compactness. It also has high water retention capacity, making it prone to waterlogging. Additionally, clay soils can be sticky when wet and hard when dry, making it challenging for plant roots to penetrate.

When rainwater carves a broad deep gash in the land as it moves of soil?

This process is known as erosion, where rainwater washes away soil and rocks, creating channels or gullies in the land. Over time, these gullies can become larger and deeper, forming ravines or canyons. Erosion can have significant effects on the landscape and environment, impacting habitats and water quality.

What forms the organic portion of soil?

The organic portion of soil is made up of decomposed plant and animal materials, such as dead leaves, roots, and microorganisms. This organic matter provides nutrients for plants, improves soil structure, and increases water retention.

What biome is characterized by soil that is rich in humus?

The biome characterized by soil rich in humus is primarily the temperate deciduous forest biome. This type of soil is dark, fertile, and nutrient-rich due to the decomposition of organic matter from the forest vegetation. Humus-rich soil is important for supporting diverse plant and animal life in this biome.

Which absorbs more water clay soil or potting soil?

Clay soil typically absorbs more water than potting soil due to its high density and fine particles that hold water well. Potting soil is designed to provide a well-draining environment for potted plants, which may contain ingredients like perlite or peat moss to improve drainage and aeration.

Can Loam soil be rolled into a ball or clumps?

Loam soil can typically be rolled into a ball when it is moist, but it should not form very hard clumps. It is a balance of sand, silt, and clay, providing good drainage and moisture retention without becoming too compacted.

What are the advantages of a loam soil?

Loam soil is a well-balanced soil type that contains a mix of sand, silt, and clay. It provides good drainage, retains moisture well, and has a fertile composition that supports healthy plant growth. Additionally, loam soil is easy to work with and has good aeration, making it ideal for many gardening purposes.

How much is a truck load off sandy loam?

The cost of a truckload of sandy loam will vary depending on the supplier, location, quantity, and quality of the soil. Prices typically range from $200 to $800 per load, with additional fees for delivery and any specialized blending or treatment required. It's best to contact local suppliers for specific pricing information.

What are the 4 types of soil?

Solar, chemical, heat and radiation

Which soil cannot be rolled into balls or clumps?

Sandy soil cannot be rolled into balls or clumps because it has large particles with low cohesion. This type of soil has poor water and nutrient retention due to its coarse texture.

What type of soil is the stickiest?

Clay soil is the stickiest type of soil due to its fine particles that have a high affinity for water molecules and form a cohesive mass when wet.

Why does topsoil have a higher fertility then subsoil?

Topsoil has higher fertility than subsoil because it contains a higher concentration of organic matter, nutrients, and microorganisms that support plant growth. These components break down and enrich the topsoil, making it more conducive to plant root development and nutrient uptake. Subsoil, on the other hand, is typically less fertile and lacks the same level of organic matter and biological activity found in the topsoil.

What kind of soil does the mountains have?

Mountains typically have rocky, well-drained soil due to the steep terrain and erosion processes. The soil composition can vary depending on the specific location and elevation of the mountain, but it is often shallow and nutrient-poor, making it challenging for plants to thrive.

How do pionner species help develop soil?

Pioneer species help develop soil by breaking down rocks and organic matter through their roots and decomposition processes. They also enrich the soil with nutrients through their leaf litter and other organic material, which eventually leads to the creation of a more fertile soil for other plant species to establish and grow.

What type of soil structure will be considered as the most desirable for crop production?

A granular soil structure is considered most desirable for crop production because it allows for good root penetration, water infiltration, and nutrient absorption. Granular soil structure also provides good aeration and drainage, promoting healthy plant growth.

How can testing soil help to increase the productivity of farmland?

Testing the soil - will reveal any deficiency in minerals etc. This gives the farmer the chance to add chemicals to counterbalance the shortfall, before seeding the area. This will increase the yield of the crop.

What soil type does oats need to grow?

Oats grow well in a well-draining loamy soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. They prefer soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients to support their growth and development. Proper soil preparation and regular fertilization can help ensure successful oat cultivation.

What type of soil does groundnut grow?

Groundnuts grow best in well-drained sandy loam soil that is rich in organic matter. They prefer soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Good soil structure is important to allow for proper root development and nutrient uptake by the plant.

What are the 2 main component of soil?

The two main components of soil are mineral particles and organic matter. Mineral particles, such as sand, silt, and clay, provide the physical structure of soil, while organic matter, derived from decaying plants and animals, contributes to soil fertility and supports microbial activity.