There are 3 main properties of soil
- Physical (the type of soil-sand, silt, clay etc)
- Chemical (acidity, alkalinity, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium etc)
- Biological (macro and micro-living organisms in the soil, plant and animal)
Biology is critical as it builds the physical structure of the soil and regulates chemical processes in it. The biology in the soil has a significant influence on plant growth and fertility.
Soil is a living ecosystem and 90% of soil function is biologically driven. Organic matter and living organisms are responsible for the majority of what soil does and its influence on plant growth and fertility.
To build the physical structure of the soil and regulate chemical processes in it, the biological makeup of the soil is critical. A handful of healthy soil will contain more living organisms than there have been humans in all of earth’s history. These organisms and their by-products form the heart of the soil and are collectively known as “organic matter”.
“Without biology, soil is simply geology”- unknown
As soil function increases, so will the ability of soil to power itself and feed the plants that grow in it, resulting in growing more with less.
It’s better for the environment, and your business investment, to restore your soil to a high functioning level that feeds the plants, rather than feeding the plants directly on dysfunctional soil.
Mycorrhizal Fungi is a natural root zone extender, and in the right soil conditions can extend 10x more in area than roots alone. This enables plants to access nutrients and water from a much greater area within the soil. It also helps to combat disease in the root zone area of the plant, resulting in healthier, stronger plants.
What is soil biology?
Soil biology refers to the living organisms within the soil, including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, earthworms and other microorganisms. Together, these organisms help break down organic matter, cycle nutrients, support soil structure and create the conditions plants need to grow.
Healthy soil is not just a growing medium. It is a living ecosystem. When soil biology is active and balanced, plants can access nutrients and moisture more effectively, roots can develop more strongly, and the soil becomes better equipped to support long-term productivity.
The benefits of soil health
Healthy soil supports stronger plants, better nutrient cycling and improved water-holding capacity. It can also help build resilience against dry conditions, compaction, disease pressure and other environmental stresses.
For farmers and growers, improving soil health can support more productive pastures and crops, better use of fertiliser inputs, and stronger long-term farm performance. BioActive Soils products are designed to support this living soil system by helping restore biological activity and improve the relationship between soil, plants and livestock.
