The Basis of Life
Carbon is the basis of all known life. All plants, animals, and humans are woven together by this little element. But lately, it's been getting its name rubbed through the dirt.
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Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is a greenhouse gas, which prevents heat from escaping from Earth into space. But there are many other useful carbon compounds that promote soil fertility.
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Carbon in Soil
Soil organic carbon (SOC) forms when plant or animal matter is broken down by decomposers in the soil's biological community. The soil biological community includes worms, fungi, bugs, and bacteria that rely on SOC for food. These organisms also rely on plant root exudates--compounds that plants send out to feed their fellow soil dwellers. In return soil organisms produce compounds that the plant can take in.
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What does it do?
SOC improves a variety of soil properties. Studies show that it decreases soil bulk density and promotes aggregate formation, which makes it easier for plant roots to penetrate soils. It also increases soil porosity and water retention. Finally, on a chemical level, it can increase the cation exchange capacity of soils, which means that it makes nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and potassium more available for plants to absorb.