By Sam Pusey
The soil is fundamental to supporting most living organisms, serving as the primary source of their mineral nutrients. Effective soil management ensures that mineral elements do not become toxic or deficient for crops, plants, and trees. Soil management is crucial for trees, environmental sustainability, productivity, and human health, making it essential to understand the subterranean processes. Cultivating the appropriate soil type facilitates the longevity and vitality of trees, even in urban settings with spatial constraints.
How Soil Management Leads to Healthy Trees
Soil primarily comprises minerals, nutrients, water, and gases. Different soil types vary according to colour, texture, acidity, depth, water retention capability, and fertility. As each tree species has specific requirements, it is important to identify the soil type necessary for their optimal growth. Effective soil management must address the following aspects:
The Planting Sites
Optimal tree growth depends on planting them in suitable soil. One effective technique to ensure optimal plant growth is to verify the correct soil profile. This involves arranging the planting site so that the tree stands at the highest point and ensuring planted trees do not remain underwater for extended periods. Installing drainage systems can also enhance water management by channelling excess rainfall away in a controlled manner.
Growth Parameters
A developing park or new plot of land designated for tree planting should undergo a thorough examination. Understanding the soil's chemical and biological composition is essential, as plants and trees flourish best in suitable, healthy soil. This can be achieved in two ways: either selecting an appropriate tree for the planting site or improving the planting site to accommodate the selected variety. Conducting a soil survey can significantly contribute to the success of the planting project. Arborists can effectively analyse both the biological and chemical conditions, providing a comprehensive understanding of the soil situation.
Soil Structure
Trees will grow optimally in soil with a well-developed structure. One method to enhance soil structure is compost, which improves soil structure over time.
Vehicle Paths
Lastly, it is important to use fixed vehicle paths appropriately. The objective is to prevent machinery from traversing the planting site, as this can lead to permanent soil compaction, especially on clay soil, hindering rooting and negatively affecting the soil's drainage capacity.
Conclusion
The soil used can either hinder or facilitate the growth of trees. Proper soil management can mitigate the risks of erosion and compaction, fostering a conducive environment for tree growth.