This module describes soil properties - physical, chemical and biological - and relates these properties to practical soil management. There is an emphasis on agricultural land use with consideration of both production and environmental issues. Other land uses are considered as appropriate.
The lecture course opens with a consideration of soil physical and chemical processes, describing their implications for soil management and plant growth.
Soil constituents and physical properties covered include particle size distribution; organisation of soil particles and creation of pore space; variations in soil texture, structure and their effects on aeration/water supply; processes leading to the development of structure in soils; soil water content, conductivity and moisture potentials; temperature and heat fluxes in soils. The soil nutrient and fertility section covers soil acidity and liming; major nutrient cycles, the assessment of nutrient availability; principles of using manures and fertilisers; nutrient losses and their environmental impact.
Soil management topics covered include the management of soil water to optimise plant growth; cultivation effects on soil properties and plant growth; soil degradation problems.
Practical classes provide experience in soil evaluation and opportunities to quantify the influence of varying soil properties on agriculturally and environmentally important soil functions. Data handling and presentation skills are developed in practical sessions.