Principles of soil management

Although soil type cannot be easily changed, knowing which soil type is present helps determine how to manage the soil to optimise its structure, water relations, and nutrient supply.

Healthy, fertile soil is a dynamic living system with physical, chemical and biological properties that promote plant and animal health and maintain environmental quality.

Soils are formed over thousands of years and reflect geology, past climate, vegetation, landscape, human activity, and management.

Good soil structure is important for crop growth. Here, you’ll discover the features and benefits of well-structured soil, as well as the impacts of poor soil structure and compaction.

Organic matter is critical to soil health. Discover what it is and how it can enhance the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil.

From rainfall to evaporation and plant transpiration, water is one of the major influences on the state of soil. Find out why it’s so important to understand the role of water in soil management.

Although soils and management practices vary from farm to farm and field to field, there are some general principles that underpin all farming systems that have healthy soils. These aim to keep chemical, physical, and biological properties in balance.

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