Physical
What is the ideal soil composition?
The ideal soil composition is approximately 45% mineral matter, 25% water, 25% air, and 5% organic matter.
What are the primary macronutrients in soil?
The primary macronutrients are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).
What role do earthworms play in soil health?
Earthworms aerate the soil, improve drainage, and assist in the decomposition of organic matter.
What is cultivation?
Cultivation is the process of breaking up and turning over soil to prepare it for planting, improving aeration and mixing in organic matter.
What are the benefits of raised garden beds?
Raised garden beds improve soil structure, reduce compaction, enhance drainage, and make gardening easier.
How does loam texture benefit soil?
Loam texture, which is approximately 40% sand, 40% silt, and 20% clay, allows for good drainage, aeration, and nutrient retention.
How does pH affect nutrient availability?
Soil pH affects the solubility of nutrients; when pH is outside the range of 6-6.5, nutrients may not dissolve well and become unavailable to plants.
How does compost benefit soil biology?
Compost adds organic matter, enhances soil structure, and supports microbial life, contributing to nutrient cycling.
How does over-cultivation affect soil?
Over-cultivation can lead to soil compaction and erosion, reducing drainage and aeration, making it difficult for plants to grow.
How does drainage improve soil properties?
Drainage prevents waterlogging, improves aeration, and allows roots and microorganisms to thrive by ensuring sufficient oxygen levels.
What is soil aeration and why is it important?
Soil aeration is the process of allowing air to enter soil pores. It is important because it provides oxygen for root respiration and supports microbial activity
What are the benefits of lime application?
Lime raises soil pH, improves nutrient availability, and enhances soil structure by gluing particles together.
What is the significance of microorganisms in soil?
Microorganisms decompose organic materials, recycle nutrients, and are essential for maintaining soil health and fertility.
What is minimum tillage?
Minimum tillage is a method of farming that involves minimal disruption of the soil, preserving its structure and reducing erosion.
What is the impact of soil compaction?
Soil compaction restricts root growth, reduces water infiltration, and limits air exchange, negatively affecting plant health.
Name one method to improve soil drainage.
One method to improve soil drainage is the use of subsurface drainage systems, such as pipe drains.
Novaflow - Perforated pipes below the surface
How do fertilizers impact soil chemistry?
Fertilizers add nutrients to the soil but can also lead to acidity if applied excessively, impacting the health of soil organisms.
What is kaitiakitanga in soil management?
Kaitiakitanga refers to the guardianship and sustainable management of soil and natural resources, ensuring their health for future generations.
Why is it important to mix organic matter into soil?
Mixing organic matter improves soil structure, enhances nutrient availability, and fosters a healthy ecosystem for soil organisms.
How does irrigation affect soil quality?
Irrigation provides water for plant growth but can lead to issues like salinization or nutrient runoff if not managed properly.
What is the role of mulch in soil properties?
Mulch helps prevent water evaporation, keeps soil warm, suppresses weeds, and can release nutrients as it decomposes
What is nitrogen fixation and its significance?
Nitrogen fixation is the process where certain plants (like legumes) convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants, enriching soil fertility.
How does crop rotation benefit soil biology?
Crop rotation helps prevent pest and disease buildup, improves soil structure, and allows different nutrients to be utilized from varying soil depths.
What is the purpose of applying effluent?
Effluent application recycles nutrients back into the soil, improving fertility while supporting microbial life and plant growth.
What are the benefits of crop rotation?
This helps maintain soil health, reduce pest and disease buildup, and support a balanced ecosystem.