| Themes > Science > Earth Sciences > Geology > Soils > Soil Composition > Components and Structure > Space for Air and Water |
About half the volume of good soil is pore space - the area between particles where air and water can penetrate. The pore space generally contains an equal volume of water, which clings to the surface of soil panicles, and air. Keeping a healthy balance of air and water by maintaining a loose, open soil is critical for good root growth and the health of the soil community. All the fertilizer in the world won't solve the problems of dense, compacted soil that is deficient in pore space. Air. Air is crucial for soil health, although certain bacteria can live without it. No amount of fertilizing can compensate for lack of air. Plant roots can't take full advantage of available nutrients if they are suffocating. Water. Water is also strictly essential, but too much water can mean too little air The ideal biological environment consists of a thin film of moisture clinging to each soil panicle, with lots of air circulating between the particles. Rain and irrigation add needed soil moisture, but good soil structure is required to conduct moisture upward from reserves in lower soil layers. |
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