Understanding our Soils

Soil, while it may seem simple, is actually a complex living ecosystem of its own. But what exactly is soil? Although definitions vary, soil is a combination of water, air, organic materials, and minerals. All together, these elements provide an exceptional medium for plant growth as well as habitat for many species, ranging in size from the tiniest bacteria to ground-boring mammals. According to Oregon State University, one teaspoon of healthy soil can be home to up to one billion bacteria! As simple as it may look, soils are highly intricate ecosystems.

As with any ecosystem, changes caused by humans can lead to a system collapse. For soil, tillage can have one of the most damaging effects. The work of underground species, such as earthworms, paired with time, gives soil its stable structure. Healthy soil should hold together on its own. When we disturb the soil, we break up the structure and push soil particles closer together. The result can be heavily compacted soil that plants struggle to break through, along with soil surfaces left uncovered and vulnerable to erosion. Seeing structure as an important factor to productivity, some farmers have chosen to do no-tillage. Practicing no-tillage results in better soil structure, increased microbial activity, improved water infiltration, and reduced soil loss due to erosion.