I. What is the Soil Food Web? The soil food web is a complex network of organisms that live in the soil and interact with each other in various ways. These organisms include bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, earthworms, and other soil-dwelling creatures. They play a crucial role in maintaining soil health and fertility by decomposing … Read more
I. What is a Wick System in Hydroponics? A wick system is a simple and passive hydroponic system that does not require any electricity or moving parts to function. It is one of the most basic types of hydroponic systems and is often used by beginners or those looking for a low-maintenance option. In a … Read more
I. What is Liming? Liming is the process of applying materials such as limestone to soil in order to raise its pH level. This is done to counteract the effects of soil acidity, which can have negative impacts on plant growth and nutrient availability. Liming is a common practice in agriculture and gardening to improve … Read more
I. What is Integrated Soil Health Management? Integrated Soil Health Management (ISHM) is a holistic approach to managing soil health that focuses on improving soil quality, fertility, and productivity through a combination of practices. This approach recognizes that soil is a living, dynamic ecosystem that plays a crucial role in supporting plant growth and overall … Read more
I. What is compost maturity? Compost maturity refers to the stage at which organic matter has fully decomposed and stabilized, resulting in a nutrient-rich soil amendment that is beneficial for plant growth. Composting is a natural process in which microorganisms break down organic materials such as food scraps, yard waste, and manure into a dark, … Read more
I. What is immobilization in soil? Immobilization in soil refers to the process by which nutrients, particularly nitrogen, become temporarily unavailable for plant uptake. This occurs when soil microorganisms consume available nutrients as they decompose organic matter, such as plant residues or manure. During this process, microorganisms use nitrogen and other nutrients for their own … Read more
I. What is a soil penetrometer? A soil penetrometer is a tool used to measure the compaction of soil. Compaction refers to the degree to which soil particles are pressed together, reducing the pore space between them. This can have negative effects on soil health, as compacted soil can inhibit root growth, water infiltration, and … Read more
I. What are inorganic mulches? Inorganic mulches are materials that are not derived from living organisms, such as plastic, stone, gravel, and rubber. These materials are often used in landscaping and gardening to help control weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature. Unlike organic mulches, which decompose over time, inorganic mulches are long-lasting and do … Read more
I. What are Cover Crops? Cover crops are plants that are grown primarily to protect and improve the soil rather than for harvest. They are typically planted during the off-season or in between cash crops to prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds, improve soil fertility, and enhance biodiversity. Cover crops play a crucial role in sustainable … Read more
I. What is denitrification? Denitrification is a microbial process that occurs in soil, water, and sediments where nitrate (NO3-) is converted into nitrogen gas (N2) or nitrous oxide (N2O) by denitrifying bacteria. This process plays a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle, as it helps to remove excess nitrogen from the environment and return it … Read more