Soil fertility is one of the most important factors in optimising crop yield and sustaining plant growth.

However, soil fertility can be altered and enhanced with both organic and synthetic fertilisers. While inorganic fertilisers appear to be a quick fix, organically correcting the fertility of your soil can help to create healthier, stronger plants.

How Important is Soil Fertility? 

Soil fertility is one of the most important components contributing towards crop growth as soil requires nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium and other vitamins and minerals to yield successfully.

Both organic matter and mineral composition encourage fertility. They actively affect the nutrients present, impacting how they are stored in the soil and how other nutrients are made available to the plant.

By affecting the fertility of the soil, organic matter makes soil phosphorous more available to plants. These outcomes are tied to soil biology, which requires much more than simply adding lime or fertiliser to stimulate plant growth. 

How Does Soil pH and Organic Matter Affect Soil Fertility? 

Organic matter is the fraction of soil which consists of plant tissue in various stages of breakdown. The matter releases nutrients as it decomposes, even when inorganic fertiliser is added. The nitrogen which is released from organic matter can be as much as 70% of the nitrogen used by a crop like corn. 

Soil pH, however, affects the number of nutrients and chemicals that are soluble in the soil water and the plant itself. Some of the nutrients are more available under acidic conditions, while others are more attracted to alkaline conditions. The ideal soil pH to achieve optimum plant growth is between 6.5 and 7.5.

How Can Soil Fertility Be Improved? 

There are many ways to improve soil fertility, both naturally and synthetically. However, for the best results, we recommend optimising fertility naturally.  

By using cover crops that add organic matter to the soil, such as cereal crops, soil fertility can be improved by cultivating its structure and promoting healthy, fertile soil.

Also, fertility can be altered by integrating soil fertility management to maximise the efficiency of the soil. This can be achieved by using grain legumes, which enhance soil through biological nitrogen fixation.

Improve Your Soil Fertility with Grass Science Seeds

Soil fertility is one of the main contributing factors impacting your crops. Whether you choose to look after soil fertility organically or synthetically, it is equally important to maintain the health of your soil.

Here at Grass Science Seeds, we not only specialise in cultivating top-quality seeds, but we also have a wealth of knowledge in the upkeep of your garden. If you would like more advice on soil fertility or keeping your soil in good health, contact our expert team today.