The Soil

Improving the Soil

Raising the level of soil amendments and organic matter in the gaps between particles of soil will raise the water and nutrient holding capacity of most soil types.

The water holding capacity of sand can be increased by 50-100% in sandy soils.

The spaces in between particles of soil are occupied by organic matter, air and water in varying quantities. Increasing the moisture and nutrient holding capacity of soil means:

• Less water and nutrients need to be applied to deliver the same quantities to the plant and leaching of water and dissolved nutrients into the environment is reduced.
• Adding organic matter also provides the right environment for a wide range of soil micro fauna and flora which in turn assists healthy plant growth.