Question

Why is organic matter important for crop production?

Answer 1

Organic matter is very much important for enhancement in food production. Organic matter is added in the form of manures to the crop. The organic matter enriches the soil with nutrients and replenishes the general deficiency of nutrients in the soil. It also waters and for aeration of the soil. For example, the organic matter present in the manures increases the water holding capacity in sandy soils and drainage in clayey soil. It also avoids water logging in clayey soils. The organic matter also provides food for soil organisms (decomposers, such as bacteria, fungi, etc.) which in turn help in making nutrients available to plants.

Thus, organic manures help to improve the physical properties of soil, reduce soil erosion, increase the moisture-holding capacity of soil and are also low-cost nutrient carriers.