Maaperäparannusaineen

Maaperäparannusaineen, also known as soil amendment, refers to any material added to soil to improve its physical, chemical, or biological characteristics. These substances are not primarily fertilizers, although some may contain nutrients. The main goal of using soil amendments is to enhance the soil's structure, water retention, aeration, drainage, and overall health, leading to better plant growth.

Common types of soil amendments include organic materials like compost, peat moss, aged manure, and leaf mold. These organic amendments decompose over time, releasing nutrients and improving soil structure by increasing its ability to hold water and air. They also support beneficial soil microorganisms. Inorganic amendments such as gypsum, perlite, vermiculite, and sand are also used. Gypsum can improve the structure of clay soils by flocculating clay particles, while perlite and vermiculite enhance aeration and drainage. Sand can also be added to heavy clay soils to improve drainage.

The specific type of amendment chosen depends on the existing soil conditions and the desired outcome. For instance, sandy soils might benefit from amendments that increase water and nutrient retention, such as compost. Conversely, heavy clay soils often require amendments that improve drainage and aeration. The application of soil amendments is a fundamental practice in agriculture, horticulture, and landscaping for maintaining and improving soil fertility and productivity.