Explanation should include
- define soil fertility and soil health
- physical factors
- soil texture
- soil structure
- soil compaction
- bulk density
- soil temperature
- water retention capacity
- biological factors
- soil organisms (e.g., bacteria, fungi, nematodes)
- chemical factors
- organic matter content
- pH
- nutrient balance
- mineral composition
- other factors
- climate
- erosion
- land management practices (e.g., crop rotation, cover cropping, no-till farming).
Process/Skill Questions:
- How does the proportion of sand, silt, and clay particles influence the water-holding capacity, aeration, and nutrient availability of the soil?
- How does the arrangement of soil particles into aggregates affect water infiltration, aeration, and root penetration?
- How does soil compaction reduce pore space, hinder root growth, water movement, and aeration?
- How does the mineral composition of the soil influence its ability to retain plant nutrients; thereby affecting plant growth and development?
- How can land management practices enhance soil health and fertility?