Soil, also commonly referred to as earth, is a mixture of organic matter, minerals, gases, water, and organisms that together support the life of plants and soil organisms. Some scientific definitions …

Jan 2, 2026 · Soil, the biologically active, porous medium that has developed in the uppermost layer of Earth’s crust. It is one of the principal substrata of life on Earth, serving as a reservoir of water and …

Jul 15, 2025 · Many different analyses for soil samples are conducted at the Soil Testing Lab. The most common analyses requested include tests for pH, phosphorus (P), potassium (K), nitrate (NO3), and …

Soil consists of horizons near the Earth's surface that, in contrast to the underlying parent material, have been altered by the interactions of climate, relief, and living organisms over time.

1 day ago · Soil is a living system of minerals, organic matter, water, and microbes that supports plants, filters water, and sustains ecosystems worldwide.

Aug 1, 2025 · Soils are the foundation of terrestrial systems, storing water and nutrients that support forests, crops, and human societies. Geology, climate, ecosystems, and human activities all affect soils.

Soil is a living, dynamic resource that supports plant life. It is made up of different size mineral particles (sand, silt, and clay), organic matter, and numerous species of living organisms.

Nov 4, 2024 · Understanding soil composition and types is essential for sustainable agriculture, land management, and environmental conservation. This article delves deeper into the components of …

Aug 12, 2025 · Soil pH is a key factor in determining plant health because it directly affects nutrient availability. If the pH falls outside the optimal range for a given plant, growth can be stunted and …

In this article readers are introduced to the many facets of soils - their unique characteristics and diversity, the ecosystem services that soils provide, and their use and misuse. Soils are...