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Basic Knowledge in Agriculture #9

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sterii
55
yesterday2 min read

Soil Types and Characteristics:

Soils can be classified into three major categories, with their different and unique characteristics. That is the clay, sandy and loamy soil.

Source:https://surl.li/rhysqm

1. Clay Soils:

  • Clay soils are prone to waterlogging, as they hold water and any form of moisture well.
  • They have high clay content.
  • They are dense which leads to low drainage of moisture and low aeration.
  • They are enriched with nutrients.
  • They have a characteristic fine texture
  • They are suitable for crops like certain grains and sugarcane.

2. Sandy Soil

  • These types of soils are prone to erosion and leaching which may require frequent fertilization
  • Coarse and rough texture.
  • Their drainage ability is high too.
  • Their capability to hold water is low which also leads to high aeration.
  • Its sand content is high.
  • Sandy soils are suitable for crops like fruits.

3. Loamy Soils:

  • Loamy soils are Ideal for most crops, including fruits, vegetables, and grains
  • These soils are a balanced mixture of clay and sand; and maybe silt.
  • They are able to hold water to a moderate extent.
  • They are especially fertile, and moderately aerated.

Agricultural Importance of Soil:

Definitely, soils play vital roles in a lot of areas; but here we would be looking at its importance to agriculture. Below are a few reasons why soil is essential for agriculture:

  1. Food Security: Soils as the foundation of food production, supports the growth of crops that feed billions of people worldwide.
  2. Support of Plants Growth: Soil provides plants with essential nutrients, water, and oxygen, supporting healthy growth and development.
  3. Filtration of Water: Soil acts as a natural filter, purifying water from unnecessary particles and preventing erosion.
  4. Sequestration of carbon: Soil stores carbon, helping to mitigate climate change. It helps to make the carbon cycle possible along with other nutrients cycle.
  5. Biodiversity: Soil supports a diverse range of microorganisms and plants, which contribute to ecosystem health.
  6. Food Security: Soils as the foundation of food production, supports the growth of crops that feed billions of people worldwide.
  7. Economic Benefits: Healthy soils can increase crop yields, improve water quality, and support rural livelihoods.

Here we go. Inviting:
@veronicalee
@ashkha
@sucessgr

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