How does organic matter content affect soil quality?

Soil quality depends on many factors, including organic matter content. Organic matter is derived from living and dead plant and animal matter in the soil and plays an important role in the soil's ability to retain nutrients and water, as well as in its available-to-fight-invasive-species/">biological activity.

Organic matter contributes to improving soil structure by its ability to form aggregates that help soil aeration and drainage. They are also a source of nutrients for soil microorganisms, which are essential for soil biological activity. Microorganisms break down organic matter, releasing nutrients for plants.

Organic matter also increases the nutrient-holding capacity of the soil. Humic substances in the soil can fix nutrients and make them available to plants in the long term. This is particularly important to prevent leaching of nutrients, which can lead to soil erosion.

Organic matter also helps to improve the soil's ability to retain water. Humic substances in the soil are able to bind and retain water, thus helping the soil to retain water. This is particularly important in dry periods when water is less available for plants.

Organic matter is therefore key to maintaining and improving soil quality. An adequate organic matter content helps to improve soil structure, fix nutrients and increase water-holding capacity. In this way, it promotes healthy plant growth and sustainable soil use.

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