Multaa

Multaa is the Finnish word for soil or earth, referring to the upper layer of the Earth's crust that supports plant life. In everyday use it denotes the material in which plants grow, and in gardening it often refers to the growing medium used in beds, pots, and planters. This can include mineral soil, organic matter, or blends marketed as potting or garden soil.

Soil is composed of mineral particles (sand, silt, and clay), organic matter, water, and air. The proportions of these components determine soil texture, which affects drainage, water retention, and root growth. Soil fertility depends on nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, along with micronutrients, pH level, and organic matter content. Healthy multaa supports a diverse community of organisms, including bacteria, fungi, and earthworms, which contribute to nutrient cycling and soil structure.

Soil also features horizons, such as the surface O and A horizons where organic material accumulates, and deeper B and C horizons with more mineral material. In gardening and agriculture, multaa is managed to improve structure and fertility through practices like adding compost or other organic amendments, avoiding soil compaction, ensuring proper drainage, and adjusting pH when necessary with lime or sulfur.

In environmental terms, soil stores carbon, filters water, and supports biodiversity, making sustainable soil management important for food production and ecosystem health. In Finland and similar regions, soils can be acidic and may require amendment or appropriate crop choices to maximize productivity and soil life.