CHAPTER II 



THE SOIL 



IN the preceding chapter attention was called to the fact 

 that some of the needs of the plant, such as sunshine, were 

 beyond our control; while others relating to the work of 

 the roots could be controlled through the soil, by making 

 conditions more favorable. The effect of soil condition upon 

 the entire plant is recognized by everyone who is familiar 

 with growing plants. When the condition is poor, as in hard, 

 dry soil, the effect is seen upon the entire plant. The roots, 

 in such cases, are unable to do their work well. Consequently, 

 the whole plant suffers. On the other hand, when the con- 

 dition is good, as in granular, moist soil, the whole plant is 

 well-developed and vigorous. The roots have access to air 

 and are able to remove readily from the soil the water and 

 material in solution needed for the growth of the entire plant. 



Since so much in plant production depends upon the soil, 

 it is necessary to understand the most important facts con- 

 cerning it what Soil is, where it comes from, and the differ- 

 ent kinds of soil. 



What soil is. By soil is generally meant the loose top- 

 covering of the earth. If a small portion of this substance 

 be placed in a bottle of water, well shaken and then allowed 

 to settle, it will be seen to be made up of particles of different 

 sizes. The larger particles will be found at the bottom, 

 smaller ones next, and so on to the very fine particles that 



