For centuries, people have been cultivating on regular or conventional soil but the situation has changed at present mainly due to the effects climate change and health issues. People are now looking for sustainable alternatives like organic soil. You can grow healthy plants naturally by using organic soils since they are filled with essential nutrients, unlike conventional soils which require chemical supplements from time to time. Organic soil is considered better than regular soil mainly because of the following reasons:
Higher nutritional content
Organic soil contains high organic content compared to conventional soils. It comprises of natural organic matter, such as compost, manure and decomposed plant matter. All of them contain essential nutrients required for the healthy growth of plants. It releases nutrients in a gradual manner, thus ensuring that plants have access to these nutrients for longer periods.
Conventional soil on the other hand lack nutrients in sufficient quantities and require supplements from synthetic fertilizers and pesticides for boosting their organic content. Use of chemical fertilizers for longer periods can have a serious impact on the soil ecosystem.
It supports a thriving soil ecosystem
Organic soil contains many beneficial organisms like earthworms and microorganisms like bacteria. Earthworm droppings are highly nutritious and help in the proper growth of plants. Microorganisms like bacteria and fungi will consume the organic matter present in this soil and break them down into simpler forms, thus making it easier for plants to absorb and utilize them.
Regular soil on the other hand will not be able to support microbial diversity due to the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Their use may have a devastating impact on the soil ecosystem.
Better water retention capacity
Organic soil has better water retention capacity compared to conventional soils because of the presence of natural organic matter which enhances soil structure. This reduces the need of frequent watering, especially during dry seasons. Organic soil also promotes good drainage system, which helps in preventing waterlogging.
Regular soil, on the other hand, has low organic content so they have poor water retention capacity as well as drainage system. Plants grown on this soil will require frequent watering which can be problematic during dry season.
Good for our health
Fruits and vegetables grown on organic soil are full of essential nutrients which are beneficial for human health. They also do not contain harmful chemicals, unlike plants grown on conventional soil. This is because regular soil lacks essential nutrients in sufficient quantities and need supplements from chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Organic soil contains organic matter which is a natural reservoir of nutrients so it does not require chemical supplements.
Organic soil can prevent pollution due to runoff
Since conventional soil requires chemical supplements, runoff from this soil can pollute groundwater, thus making them unsafe for drinking. Organic soil on the other hand is free of harmful chemicals, so their runoff is safer compared to regular soil. In fact, this runoff can improve the quality of water as it is full of essential nutrients.
Organic soil is considered as a sustainable alternative to conventional soil mainly because of the reasons mentioned above. You can now enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables by growing them in your garden using organic soil.