Ilmanpitoon

Ilmanpitoon is a Finnish term that can be translated into English as "air holding capacity" or "aeration capacity." It refers to the ability of a material, such as soil or a growing medium, to retain and supply air to plant roots. This is a crucial factor for plant health as roots require oxygen for respiration.

A material with good ilmanpitoon allows for sufficient pore spaces that are not filled with water. These air-filled pores are essential for the diffusion of oxygen from the atmosphere into the root zone and for the removal of carbon dioxide produced by root respiration. Without adequate aeration, roots can suffocate, leading to poor growth, increased susceptibility to diseases, and potentially death.

Factors influencing ilmanpitoon include particle size, structure, and organic matter content. Soils with a high proportion of larger particles, such as sand, tend to have better aeration. Well-aggregated soils, where particles clump together to form larger structures, also promote better air circulation. Conversely, compacted soils or those with a high clay content, which can retain a lot of water, often suffer from poor ilmanpitoon. In horticulture, the selection of growing media with appropriate ilmanpitoon is vital for successful plant cultivation, especially for species sensitive to waterlogged conditions.