Question

Give information on importance of soils for plant growth.

Answer 1

1. Plants are an important component of the living things on the earth. 
2. For the production and growth of plants, the soil is indispensable.
3. Though a favourable climate and availability of abundant water and sunlight are necessary for the growth of a plant, these alone are not sufficient. Fertile soils equally favour plant growth.
4. The importance of soils for plant growth can be explained with the help of the following points:

1. Fertile soil and vegetation: Fertile soil provides a great number of micronutrients to the crops. Therefore, vegetation is abundant in the regions that have fertile soil. For example, vegetation in the Equatorial region.
2. Infertile soil and vegetation: Less amount of micronutrients are present in infertile soil. Therefore, vegetation is scanty in infertile soil. For example, vegetation in the Hot Desert region.
3. Shortage of soil and vegetation: Where there is a shortage of a soil, vegetation is not seen. For example, the Absence of vegetation in the polar areas. 

Answer 2

1. Soil serves as both a foundation for plant growth and a surface for root penetration.
2. It acts as a water reservoir.
3. Various minerals found in soil are necessary for plant growth. The only source of nutrients for plants is soil.
4. Organic compounds found in soil are necessary for plant growth.
5. Microorganisms in the soil have a symbiotic relationship with plants and help them grow and go through life processes.