Soil compaction and disturbance such as excessive tillage can eliminate these important microenvironments. Fortunately, soil is full of microenvironments-tiny habitats that differ in the amount of available air, water and nutrients. Plant roots and microbes need access to varying amounts of air and water for optimum growth. Organic matter such as compost can be a source of macronutrients like nitrogen, as well as micronutrients such as manganese and zinc.A soil test can tell you what nutrients your soil is lacking.Micronutrients are needed in small quantities: iron, manganese, molybdenum, chlorine, boron, copper, and zinc these are also usually sufficient in Minnesota soils.Calcium, sulfur and magnesium are usually sufficient in Minnesota soils unless the soil is very sandy.Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium come from fertilizer and organic matter phosphorus and potassium also come from weathering of soil particles. Carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen come from air and water.Macronutrients are needed in larger quantities:.There are 17 essential nutrients all plants need to grow.Like us, plants need a variety of nutrients for optimum health. Highly decomposed plant material is called humus, a stable and important source of plant nutrients great for growing plants. The plants, in turn, feed the soil organisms with their remains. Organic matter is composed of living plant roots and organisms, decomposing plant and animal residue in varying stages of decay, and enzymes secreted by soil organisms that act like glue to bind soil particles.Īs soil organisms like fungi and bacteria break down plant and animal parts, nutrients become available to plants. Organic matter improves soil physical properties such as air and water availability, allowing for healthy root growth. Healthy soil is the foundation of every yard and garden. Your soil test results will include information about soil texture, pH, nutrients, and organic matter, and provide fertilizer recommendations for the plants you plan to grow. Submit a sample of your garden soil to the University of Minnesota Soil Testing Lab, located on the St. Understanding your soil is the first step to creating an optimum soil ecosystem. Here are six tips for achieving optimum soil health in your garden: Test your soil To prevent spreading them into forested areas, don’t dump fishing bait or move soil with earthworms.Ī healthy soil ecosystem provides plants with easy access to air, water, and nutrients.
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