Soil - Info pack

Soil is a fundamental component of our planet's ecosystem, often referred to as the 'earth's skin' due to its position as the topmost layer of land. It is a complex mixture that includes minerals, water, air, and organic matter, along with a vast array of organisms. These organisms are largely made up of the decomposed remains of once-living beings. Soil is not only vital for the growth of plants, which in turn support a wide variety of life forms, but it is also indispensable for the overall health of our planet, playing a multitude of roles in our natural environment.

The structure of soil is layered, comprising different horizons labelled as O, A, E, B, C, and R. The O horizon is rich in organic matter such as decomposing leaves, while the A horizon contains a blend of organic material and minerals, making it particularly beneficial for plant growth and microorganisms. The E horizon, though absent in some soils, is characterised by leached materials, leaving a concentration of sand and silt. Below this, the B horizon accumulates minerals that have leached from the layers above. The C horizon is the deposit from which the soil develops, and the R horizon represents the bedrock, which may become the parent material for soil if it weathers close to the surface. Understanding the composition and fertility of soil is crucial for various applications, from agriculture to construction, and even plays a role in scientific experiments, such as observing the growth rates of plants in different soil types.