Soil Formation and Types
Explain how soil forms and identify soil types.
Soil is a living mixture of minerals, organic matter, air and water.
- Describe how soil forms.
- Compare sandy, clay and loamy soils.
- Explain how to improve soil fertility.
Formation
Soil forms when rocks are broken down by weather, water and living things over long periods. Dead plants and animals add humus, which improves fertility and water retention.
Soil Types
- Sandy soil — large particles, drains quickly, holds few nutrients.
- Clay soil — small particles, holds water, can become waterlogged.
- Loamy soil — a balanced mixture; best for most crops.
Improving Soil
Add compost or manure, practise crop rotation, avoid burning vegetation, and use cover crops to protect the surface from erosion.
Squeeze moist soil in your hand.
If it crumbles easily, it is sandy. If it holds a tight ball, it is clay. If it holds together but crumbles when poked, it is loam.
Practice
- Explain how soil is formed.
- Compare sandy and clay soil.
- Describe two ways to improve soil fertility.
Recap
Soil forms from weathered rock and organic matter. Loam is best for most crops, and compost and rotation maintain fertility.
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Soil, Crops and Livestock
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