Farmers know that the fertility of the soil depends on many factors. For the plants to grow they
need to get from the soil suitable conditions for root growth, appropriate supply of water and
nutrients available for uptake by roots. If certain soil conditions are not suitable, plant growth can
be inhibited. For example water logging, acidity, compaction or shortage of nutrients can tremendously
decrease the yields of some crops.
Why organic matter is so important?
Soil organic matter helps to build up a loose and soft soil structure with a lot of cavities
(pores). This leads to better aeration, better infiltration of rain or irrigation water and an easier
penetration of roots.
The visible parts of organic matter act like tiny sponges which can hold water up to five times
their own weight. Therefore in dry periods more water is available for the plants for a longer
time. This is especially important in sandy soils.
The non-visible parts of organic matter act like a glue, sticking soil particles together thus forming
stable crumbs. Such aggregates improve the soil structure, especially in clay and sandy
soils.
Beneficial micro-organisms and other soil organisms such as earthworms also feed on organic
material thus decomposing it. As these organisms require sufficient humidity and aeration,
soil organic matter provides a suitable environment for them.
Organic matter has a great capacity to retain nutrients and release them continuously. It thereby
increases the capacity of the soil to supply the plants with nutrients and reduces nutrient
losses by leaching. This is especially important in sandy soils as they naturally retain very few
nutrients.
Organic matter also prevents soils from becoming too acidic.
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