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Trees are extremely important in soil
building. Their roots grow down and break up the bedrock into smaller soil particles and their fallen leaves contribute to the
nutrient richness of the soil. Tree branches soften heavy rainfalls, and their roots provide a support structure within the
soil, two factors that help prevent erosion.
Soil types are a major factor in determining what types of plants will grow in a certain area. Plants use inorganic elements from the soil, such as nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus, but the community of fungi, bacteria, and other microscopic creatures living within the soil are also vital. These living organisms help with the decomposition of dead plants and animals, breaking them down into soil. |
Earthworms are just one of the many types of creatures that live in the soil. Photo by Maya Walters. |
soil types -- page 1 of 4
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related topics
[erosion] [plants] [fungi]
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