Mind the Soil

Without a doubt, the most important thing I’ve learned in my ecological journey is to mind the soil. More than anything else, what goes on below the surface dictates what we see above. To that end, this is the first of a series of posts focused on soil science and concepts.

What happens to all those leaves that fall to the ground each season and why is it so important to not haul them away? How do plants interact with each other? What even is soil? Stick around to find out.

First, we’re going to focus on the foundation of it all-things-soil, which is the concept of the Soil Food Web.

Let’s break down (pun definitely intended) how organic material turns into soil.

Step 1

The first to arrive on the scene are tiny organisms like bacteria, fungi, and algae. They start things off by feeding on decaying organic matter, like dead plant material (e.g., leaves, roots, downed wood), animal droppings, and animal remains. As they break down this organic matter, they release essential nutrients — like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) — in a form that plants and other microorganisms can absorb. These nutrients are incredibly important for fueling plant growth.

Step 2

Next, slightly larger (but still microscopic) critters like protozoa and nematodes munch on bacteria, fungi, and occasional plant roots, helping to control their populations. When they eat these microbes and materials, they break them down and essentially poop out even more plant-available nutrients, further fueling plant growth.

Step 3

At the upper end of the soil food web are larger organisms like earthworms, beetles, and other insects. By eating smaller creatures in the web, as well as breaking down organic matter and creating channels in the soil that improve aeration and water movement, these larger organisms further contribute to nutrient cycling. This is why when you lift up a log there are so many critters living underneath. Every decaying log is a hub of biodiversity.

Step 4

In the greater above ground ecosystem, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and mammals predate on the aforementioned soil-dwelling critters. Eventually, these larger animals die and they themselves decompose. Their nutrients return to the soil and re-enter the cycle. This is why investing in your soil health is so important. By doing so, you are benefitting your local ecology tremendously.

So the next time you see a mole hill and think to call an exterminator, please understand that those little creatures we’ve unfairly labeled as “pests” are providing a lot of benefits to your soil while they fulfill their role in the Soil Food Web.

These little creatures are like soil fairies, visiting good children with healthy soil biomes.

A pristine lawn is an ecological desert — and an outdated remnant of 17th century England.