Humus Soil

Humus soil is considered to be one of the most fertile types of soil in the world, and that explains its wide use for planting across the globe. In fact, it is so fertile that it's widely used to treat other soil types. Its definition states that it is the soil with substantial amount of decomposed matter in it. However, this is just the basic aspect, as there is a lot more to know about this type of soil.

Humus Soil: An Overview

Humus soil is the soil which is produced over a period as a result of the decomposing organic matter. This organic matter may include anything, ranging from fallen leaves to animal waste. As this organic matter decomposes, it tends to form tiny negatively charged humus particles in the soil. The presence of these negatively charged particles in the soil in turns out to be beneficial as it absorbs the positively charged nutrients, such as calcium and magnesium, improves the fertility of the soil.

As far as the appearance is concerned, humus soil ranges from dark brown to black in color, with specks of white in it. The process by which this soil is formed is referred to as humification. This process can happen naturally, i.e. on its own, or artificially, i.e. by the means of composting. An example of natural humification would be the process wherein the leaves that are shed by the plants start decaying, and the decayed matter is added to the soil, thus enhancing its fertility. A similar process occurs when animal waste is added to the soil.

The organic matter, such as decaying plants, soil organisms or animal waste, adds to the fertility of this soil type, and thus makes it one of the most fertile soils, ideal for plant growth. This soil has the capacity to hold the mineral particles together in clusters referred to as the aggregates. These aggregates, in turn, improve the structure of the soil, and contribute to its fertility. Even though you can opt to buy humus soil for your garden, you can go for this option only when you don't have time to spare, as making it is a relatively easy task.

How to Make Humus Soil?

If you have an hour a day to spare, you can prepare humus soil on your own, through the method of composting. You can prepare it using yard debris, such as fallen leaves or mowed grass, as well as your household waste. If required, you can also add animal waste to it. You just have to add this organic matter to the soil, and allow it to decompose in the compost pit. You will have to turn the matter at least once a week to ensure that there is enough oxygen to facilitate the process of humification. Similarly, you will also have to monitor the moisture content of the soil. After some time, you will see tiny white matter in this soil, which would be a sign of your humus soil being ready to use. This will also ensure that you have it in abundance all round the year.

The rate at which the organic matter is converted to humus plays a crucial role in the life of this soil. More importantly, the presence of humus in soil also alters its ability to withstand drought conditions. At the end of the day, the overall verdict is that the humus soil is the best bet, if you are planning to start gardening, irrespective of whether you buy it or make it on your own.