January 15, 2020 – As you know, many states have a designated state bird, flower, fish, tree, rock, etc. And, many states also have a state soil – one that has significance or is important to the state. We’ve previously written about New Jersey’s state soil, Downer. The San Joaquin is the official state soil of […]
Soil Science Society of America
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How much compost is enough for my garden?
April 15, 2019 -Adding compost to a garden is a good idea. But, like most things in life, is it best to do it in moderation? To answer that question, you need to understand what you are adding and why. Compost provides a range of benefits to both the soil and the plants growing in […]
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How does the freeze-thaw cycle impact soil?
January 15, 2019 – Winter soil freezes, heaves, and moves! The Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) Jan. 15 Soils Matter blog looks at the freeze-thaw cycle, how it changes soil on a microscopic level, and the reaction of Alaska’s unique permafrost soils. “Freezing deforms the soil,” writes blogger Erin Rooney. “Frost heaving allows mineral […]
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How Can I Prevent Erosion and Runoff in My Yard?
Sept. 18, 2017 – Erosion – the displacement of soil from one place to the other – can happen on large properties and small. When soil from your yard runs into the street, it can block storm water systems. Erosion is unsightly at best and an environmental problem at worst. But you can do some […]
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Why is my soil so compacted? (VIDEO)
May 1, 2017 – Hopefully, the ground in your yard has thawed by now (regrets to those who still have frozen ground!). So why is it that when you try to push your shovel into the soil, it doesn’t budge? If it’s hard for you to push that shovel, it’s even harder for plant roots […]
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How do I keep the soils in my raised bed healthy?
April 4, 2017 – As thoughts of spring enter our minds, many people are starting to design and develop their perfect spring and summer gardens. If you are new to gardening, you should know that there is no “right” way to design a plot. There are countless options! This fact allows you to embrace your […]
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Does snow really provides my drinking water?
March 2, 2017 – When snow arrives in the mountains, winter sports enthusiasts get excited. And, farmers “down country” get excited, too, but not for all the same reasons! Winter mountain snows mean that come springtime, water supplies will be replenished for both urban and agricultural use. And, this year’s near-record snowfalls mean good things […]
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How was Great Sand Dunes National Park “made?”
Feb. 3, 2017 – Most individuals are inspired by the mountain vistas and wildlife found in our National Park System. However, being a soil scientist, I usually have my head down looking at interesting soils and soil-forming factors occurring at these special places. Water and wind erosion of soils have been going on since the […]
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Putting Sidewalks on Low-Sodium Diet
Jan. 3, 2017 – Wintry weather can pack a slippery punch. While use of salt on roads and sidewalks can return surfaces to a safer status, too much salt can have long-term effects on soil. The Soil Science Society of America (SSSA) January 1 Soils Matter blog post explains how too much salt reduces soils’ […]