Chapter 11: Problem 6

Describe, in terms of both content and physical structure, the soil environment that will best fulfill the needs of plants.

Short Answer

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The best soil for plants needs to have a good content with vital nutrients (NPK, secondary and micronutrients), a balanced physical structure (ideally a loam type), a suitable pH level (mostly between 6 and 7), and a considerable amount of organic matter to improve soil structure and promote microbiological activity.

Step by step solution

Content Aspect

The content of the soil is crucial for plant growth. Necessary nutrients are needed for the healthy development of plants. The main nutrients are Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) which form the NPK ratio commonly referred in fertilizers. There are also secondary and micronutrients which include calcium, magnesium, sulfur, boron, chlorine, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, and zinc.

Physical Structure Aspect

The physical structure of the soil also greatly impacts plant growth. Soil needs to have a certain level of porosity, the presence of gaps within the soil, to allow water infiltration, retention, and gas exchange. The three main types of soil are sand, silt, and clay, with loam considered the ideal soil type because it has a balanced mixture of these three.

pH Level Consideration

Soil pH is another vital factor to consider. Most plants prefer a pH level between 6 and 7. A pH level outside this range could lead to nutrient lockout, making it hard for the plants to uptake the required nutrients.

Organic Matter Importance

Lastly, to maintain a healthy soil, a good level of organic matter should be maintained. Organic matter improves soil structure and promotes microbiological activity, which in turn can aid in nutrient release.

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Describe, in terms of both content and physical structure, the soil environment that will best fulfill the needs of plants.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Content Aspect

Physical Structure Aspect

pH Level Consideration

Organic Matter Importance

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