Soil health means different things for different plants. There are plants that flourish in soil that’s nutrient-poor, such as tarragon and chamomile, but most plants need minerals such as potassium, nitrogen, phosphorus and magnesium, microorganisms to make them available, and water and oxygen.

Types of Soil

There are a bewildering number of soil types, but loamy soil is considered ideal for most plants. It’s made up of some sand, which helps it drain well, some clay, which is dense and full of nutrients, and silt, which is slippery and has the feel of wet clay. You can actually find loam that’s infertile, and plants such as California tree poppies like it. Loam can also be more acidic or more alkaline. Still, it’s the most likely type of soil to be not only nutrient-rich but able to make those nutrients available to the plants.

Healthy Soil Brings the Nutrients

Not all nutrient-rich soil can get those nutrients to the plants that grow in it. Clay soil tends to have loads of nutrients, but it can’t get them to the plant. Healthy soil can not only send needed vitamins and minerals to its plants but also contains microorganisms that break down leaves, mulch, and manure. Even those horrible little pillbugs help break down organic matter. This is why they’re called detrivores. Earthworms aerate the soil as they move through it, and their castings also make the soil more fertile.

Healthy Soil Drains Well

Some plants like wet soil, and some like their soil bone dry, but most prefer soil that drains well or even stays a little moist. Soil that doesn’t drain well rots the roots of most plants and prevents oxygen from getting into them. Healthy soil holds on to water long enough to get plants through dry spells but doesn’t stay waterlogged. Nor does it drain so quickly that it leaves the soil dry most of the time.

Healthy Soil Keeps Plants Healthy

The microbiome that’s a bed full of healthy soil also helps plants fight diseases and infestations. It’s full of good bacteria that overwhelm pathogens and good bugs that feed on bad bugs. This too keeps plants strong and healthy.

Healthy Soil Lets Plants Put Down Roots

Healthy soil allows the roots of plants to anchor firmly without suffocating them. That way, the plant itself can grow strong while its roots take up the nutrients and oxygen they need.

Healthy soil that gives plants their RDA of nutrients and water is crucial for a thriving lawn and garden. It’s up to you and the gardening experts you consult to help the soil meet the needs of your plants. If you live in San Carlos, CA or a surrounding area and need plant care services, make your first call to West Coast Tree Care.