SOIL SCIENCE (MIDTERMS)

Soil

-fundamental component of eath ecosystem
-foundation for plant growth, water filtration, habitat for microorganism

Minerals
organic MAtter
water
air

soil is composed of?

Minerals

consists of sand, silt, clay
-it determines soilis texturea nd permeability

Organuc Matter

it contributes to soil fertility through providing essential nutrients

water and air

supports plant roots and ,icroorganism

water infiltration
root penetration
aeration

good soil structure results to

Aggregates

it influences soil’s abikity to reatin moisture and resist eriosion

O
A
B
C
R

soil has distinct layers/ horizon

Horizon O

topmost layer in decomposed material

Horizon A (Topsoil)

minerals and organic materials for plant growth

Horizon b (SUBSOIL)

minerals from upper layers

Horizon C

weathered parent material

Horizon R

bedrock layer

Soil erosion

-it is the displacement of topsoil due to water, wind / human activities

Soil Degredation

it is the intensive agriculture and industrial pollution

sustainable agriculture management and land management strategies

to combat those problems you need to have

Conservation Tillage

reducing plowing

Crop rotation and cover crops

enhancing soil fertility and prevent nutrient depletion

agroforestry

integrating tress and shurbs

Contour farming and terracing

reducing runoff and soil erosion on slopes

composting and organic amendments

improving soil fertility and microbial health

Efficient water management

implementing irrigations

Biochar Application

increasing carbon sequestration

Integrated Pest MAnagemnet (IPM)

reducing reliance in chemical pesticides