sa composters agricultural info

An acre of living topsoil contains approximately 900 pounds of earthworms, 2,400 pounds of fungi, 1,500 pounds of bacteria, 133 pounds of protozoa, 890 pounds of arthropods and algae, and even small mammals in some cases. Therefore, the soil can be viewed as a living community rather than an inert body. Soil organic matter also contains dead organisms, plant matter, and other organic materials in various phases of decomposition. Humus, the dark-colored organic material in the final stages of decomposition, is relatively stable. Both organic matter and humus serve as reservoirs of plant nutrients; they also help to build soil structure and provide other benefits. All these organisms from the tiny bacteria up to the large earthworms and insects. interact with one another in a multitude of ways in the soil ecosystem. Organisms not directly involved in decomposing plant wastes may feed on each other or each other’s waste products or the other substances they release.

Appropriate mineral nutrition needs to be present for soil organisms and plants to prosper. Adequate levels of calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, and the trace elements should be present, but not in excess.

Benefits of organic matter

The benefits of a topsoil rich in organic matter and humus are many. They include rapid decomposition of crop residues, granulation of soil into water-stable aggregates, decreased crusting and clodding, improved internal drainage, better water infiltration, and increased water and nutrient holding capacity. Improvements in the soil’s physical structure facilitate easier tillage, increased water storage capacity, reduced erosion, better formation and harvesting of root crops, and deeper, more prolific plant root systems.

< Previous Page Next Page >

e more pictures in our gallery!!