04/03/2024
What is soil?
To me, soil is dirt with life in it, from which, all life comes forth, and returns. It is a biological living system that has been in decline for many years, and now we can taste, smell, and see this deficiency in our fruits and vegetables. We can see this decline in human and animal health, as well as our air and water. Rather than focusing on what is yucky here, I want to share what we can do to help change this.
I like to start with water and mulch (organic matter). Without water there is no life, and when there isn’t organic matter and roots, the surface of the soil is bare, and therefore, water quickly evaporates and the surface is bare. Much like an open wound waiting for a soothing bandage to cover, so that it can heal.
Mulch and roots are a bandage. Mulch is organic materials that can be added to the topsoil that can help hold water by acting as a sponge, inviting microbiology home to eat and p**p. This “p**p loop” is the beginning of the nutrient cycling system and will add to the topsoil. This system is balanced within a symbiotic communication system with a diversity of plant roots, fungi, bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, micro & macro arthropods, and the rest of the local critters in the ecosystems that play a role.
When looking at a soil sample under a microscope, we can get an idea of what life is present, identify some problem areas and then look at some solutions that can help regenerate the soil with what is needed to help bring balance back to the system, so that it can cycle on its own.
Soil is an alien territory that’s a fun new discovery all the time, and I hope we can help you understand more about your soils!
Ps… If you plan on attending the Health and Homestead Conference April 13th (www.healthandhomesteading.com), I hope you come by and visit us at our booth! Soil health is our passion, and we are here to serve. Thank you 🌿💚🌿
