Neikhriehunuo Theünuo
As we celebrate World Soil Day (WSD) on December 5, it is important to recognize the critical role that soil health and fertility play in our lives. Soils form the foundation of the Earth's surface and are essential for most life forms, yet they are among the least understood and valued ecosystems on the planet. Soil is regarded as one of the most biologically diverse habitats on Earth, hosting more biodiversity per unit area than what is found above ground, and serves as a hub for biological interactions. Soil organisms are crucial for several vital ecosystem functions that humans rely on, such as decomposition, mineralization, and nutrient cycling and these soil organisms facilitate the delivery of ecosystem services, including disease suppression and pollutant breakdown through bioremediation, soil formation, water infiltration, and climate regulation by influencing carbon (C) dynamics.
Additionally, belowground communities are closely connected to aboveground communities through trophic interactions, biogeochemical cycling, and plant-soil feedbacks, and these interactions ultimately regulate ecosystem functioning. Nevertheless, our understanding of belowground communities is much less advanced than our understanding of aboveground communities. Although soils may seem very resilient, their ability to function properly can be quite fragile.
This year theme for WSD is “Caring for soils: Measure, Monitor, Manage” emphasizes the importance of taking care of our soil resources. Measuring soil health is the first step in this process.
What is Soil Health?
Soil health refers to the ability of soil to function as a living ecosystem, supporting plant growth and maintaining environmental balance. Healthy soils are rich in microorganisms—bacteria, fungi, and insects—that break down organic material and help cycle nutrients. Good soil structure also allows for proper water retention and root growth, which is essential for healthy crops.
Soil Health and Fertility: More Than Just Nutrients
Soil fertility is the soil's ability to supply plants with the essential nutrients they need for growth. While many people associate fertility with the presence of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (the primary nutrients), soil fertility encompasses a broader spectrum of factors. The right balance of these nutrients, along with trace elements like calcium, magnesium, and iron, is necessary for plants to thrive.
Fertile/healthy soils also have a robust cation exchange capacity (CEC), which is the soil’s ability to hold onto essential nutrients and make them available to plants over time. Organic matter, such as compost and decomposed plant material, enhances fertility by improving soil structure and providing a continuous supply of nutrients as it breaks down.
However, soil fertility isn't just about adding more fertilizers. Over-reliance on chemical fertilizers and synthetic inputs can lead to nutrient imbalances, reduced biodiversity, and harm to beneficial soil organisms. True soil fertility is built gradually through sustainable practices that nurture the soil ecosystem and enhance its ability to function naturally.
“Measure”, Measuring soil is the first critical step in caring for it, as it provides essential information about its health and needs. Regular soil testing allows for the evaluation of key factors such as pH, nutrient levels (like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium), organic matter content, and the presence of any harmful substances. Understanding the soil's texture, whether sandy, loamy, or clay-based, also helps in determining its water retention, aeration, and drainage capacity. Additionally, measuring soil moisture levels ensures proper irrigation management, preventing both over-watering and drought stress. By assessing these factors, you gain a clear understanding of the soil's current condition and can make informed decisions for its care.
“Monitor”, Monitoring soil is an ongoing process that involves regularly observing and tracking its health to detect any changes that may affect its fertility and structure. This includes checking soil moisture levels to ensure proper hydration for plants, preventing both drought stress and waterlogging. Periodic soil tests help monitor nutrient levels, pH, and organic matter content, allowing for adjustments in fertilization and amendments. Visual inspections can reveal signs of soil erosion, compaction, or contamination, while tracking biological activity, such as the presence of earthworms and microbes, provides insight into soil vitality. By closely monitoring these aspects, any issues can be addressed before they become significant problems, helping maintain the long-term health and productivity of the soil.
“Manage”, The good news is that there are practical, sustainable solutions to protect and restore soil health. Practices like crop rotation, cover cropping, and reduced tillage help preserve soil structure, prevent erosion, and improve fertility. Organic farming techniques that emphasize composting and natural pest management can also enhance soil quality and biodiversity.
Soil health and fertility are not just issues for farmers—they are issues for all of us. As stewards of the planet, we must advocate for soil conservation, reduce our environmental footprint, and raise awareness about the importance of healthy soils in building a sustainable future for our planet. Healthy soils are the foundation of a healthy world. Therefore, let’s take action to protect them before it’s too late.
The writer is a research scholar in the Department of Chemistry, Kohima Science College Autonomous, Jotsoma.
