PDC LESSON 4.8 SOIL – STRUCTURE

                            

                       

PERMA COURSE AGRO-ECONOMY

PDC LESSON 4.8 SOIL – STRUCTURE

 

Soil - Structure

Structure of the soil is the way soil particles group together to form small crumbs called peds. In most soils this is very apparent but in soils composed of beach sand, the soil grains do not stick together. When the particles of some clay soils join in a large featureless mass, this is the other end of the scale and both types are said to be soil of no structure. Both sandy and clay soils are remedied by adding lots of organic matter. Organic matter helps to give soil a good structure because it helps to bind soil particles together. Good soil structure is important as this allows water to soak into the soil and also allows excess water to drain out. Air needs to be able to move through soil as well. This is very important for the soil life. Soil life needs air to do their job. (Aerobic bacteria and other larger forms of life such as worms and insects).  Good soil structure is essential for good drainage and aeration.

 

Soil permeability

is a measure of how easily water moves throughout the soil? It affects the rate at which water can enter the soil, the infiltration rate.

•              The porosity is measured by how much space is around the mineral                     grains that are filled by air or water.

 

The ideal soil is one that is very productive and will support healthy plants. This can mean any type of soil that has plenty of soil biota and organic matter.

           •              This type of soil will be well structured; Is full of nutrient ,

•              Is well-drained ; Is biologically active; Has medium texture

•              Has a pH of 6.3-6.8

 

A combination of these features will provide an environment that is ideal for plant growth.

   Text from the roots, Elisabeth Ferkonia (Aus.) PDC studied with Bill Mollison,