Soil formation is an important process that happens over time, shaped by five main factors: climate, parent material, topography, organisms, and time. These factors work together to create different types of soil, which are essential for farming and the environment.

How Soil Forms

1. Weathering:

   • Weathering is when rocks break down into smaller pieces.
   • Physical weathering, like freeze-thaw cycles, helps break rocks apart.
   • Chemical weathering changes the minerals in the rocks.
   • About 70% of soil comes from these weathered rocks.

2. Organic Matter Accumulation:

   • When plants and animals decompose, their remains add nutrients to the soil.
   • This process creates something called humus, which is good for soil health.
   • Healthy soil can have up to 10% organic matter, which helps plants grow better.

3. Soil Development:

   • Soil develops in layers called horizons (A, B, C horizons).
   • Each layer has its own unique features.
   • It can take hundreds to thousands of years for these layers to form, depending on the environment.

4. Climate Influence:

   • Weather, especially temperature and rainfall, affects how soil forms.
   • For example, places that get more than 1000 mm of rain each year usually have richer soils.

Effects on Farming

1. Soil Fertility:

   • Soils that are rich in organic matter help crops grow better.
   • Farms with 3-5% organic matter can see crop yields go up by 20-30%.

2. Water Retention:

   • The structure of soil affects how it holds and drains water, which is very important for crops.
   • Sandy soils drain quickly but often need extra water.
   • Clay soils hold onto water but can become too compacted.

3. Biodiversity:

   • The different life forms in the soil help recycle nutrients, which supports farming systems.

Understanding these soil formation processes is vital for keeping our farming practices sustainable and our ecosystems healthy.