Title: Define the characteristics of soil and soilless substrates.
Course: Horticulture Science (18052-I) > Section: Applying Science to Horticulture

Definition should include

- the major components of a true soil (e.g., sand, silt, clay, organic matter, living organisms, pore space, water)
- soil classification
- soil texture
- soil pH
- the importance of soil pasteurization
- the benefits of organic matter (e.g., compost practices)
- soil amendments and how they can improve soil (e.g., drainage, aeration, moisture retention, nutritional deficiencies, pests)
- components of soilless substrates
- chemical properties (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) of soil and soilless substrates and their effects on fertility
- physical properties of soil and soilless substrates and their effects on drainage and/or water-holding capacity
- advantages and disadvantages of soilless substrates
- components of soilless substrates
  - perlite
  - sphagnum moss
  - peat moss
  - vermiculite
  - limestone
  - tree bark
  - fertilizer.

Process/Skill Questions:

- What constitutes a living soil?
- How is soil classified?
- What common substrate components are used in plant production?
- How do the common components of soil affect plant growth?
- What are the principles of building successful compost?
- What soilless amendments are useful for plant production?
- How does pH affect plant growth?
- How can pH be adjusted?
- How should soil be stored and preserved?
- How often should the soil of indoor plants be changed?
- What is the benefit of knowing the soil texture for an area?
- What information can be obtained from a soil test, and how is this information useful?
- What is the job outlook for careers in agronomy, crop, and soil science?