We have put men on the moon, unraveled mysteries that are age old, designed magnificent wonders and architectural structures, and have explored the universe beyond our world.  We have understandings of how other planets and solar systems function, and claim to have technology to extend life and eradicate disease.  All are great achievements of our mankind. But then, what do we know about the ground that feeds us and the soil that provides our foundation?

It is as simple as a child's toy and a complex as the universe we live in.  It provides the medium from which we grow our food, holds and stores the nutrients for the plants and biology that live within its environment and recycles all the nutrients and minerals to continue the growing cycle.  Yet, despite our dependence on the soil for our very existence, it is likely the least understood system on our planet.

What is Healthy Soil?

Common Characteristics of Healthy Soil

• Drains and warms up quickly in the spring - water does not stand in large quantizes, soil warms quickly in the spring with the heat of the sun.
• Soil does not crust after planting - soil structure is such that air and water can be absorbed easily.
• Soil soaks up heavy rains with little run off - soil structure acts like a sponge, absorbing the rain and moisture as it becomes available.
• Soil stores moisture for dry spells - soil structure allows for storage of moisture as it is accumulated.
• Soil resists erosion and nutrient loss - soil structure is flocculated, colloids are attached in an "I" beam formation rather than stacked against each other.Is an ideal environment for microbes - need a neutral environment that contains food and nutrients, oxygen and energy and a place to live.
• Soil does not require increasing amount of fertilizer to maintain good yields - soil ecosystem is capable of recycling most nutrients returned to the soil through trash and debris.
• Soil produces healthy, high quality crops - plants are able to absorb the minerals, water and nutrients they need when they need it, they naturally create food.  It's their job.
  (Ag Labs International)

Good Farming Practices

• Increasing soil structure
• Recycling organic matter
• Maintaining a good balance of available crop nutrients
• Use of microbiology friendly products

Take care out there!