UNIT 2 – SOIL HEALTH BASICS

1. Composting: What it is and why it matters

Composting is a natural way to recycle organic waste.
Farmers can identify useful materials such as:

• Food leftovers
• Vegetable peels
• Dry leaves and crop residues
• Animal manure

These materials break down with air, water and small organisms like bacteria and worms.
Over time, they become humus — dark, soft, nutrient‑rich material.

Learners can explain that compost:

• Improves soil structure
• Strengthens root growth
• Helps soil keep more water
• Reduces the need for chemical fertilisers

2. Mulching: Protecting the soil surface

Mulching means covering the soil with natural materials such as straw, dry leaves, grass or wood chips.
This layer works like a protective blanket.

Learners can describe how mulch:

• Keeps water in the soil
• Prevents fast drying from strong sun
• Keeps soil cooler in summer and warmer in winter
• Blocks weeds by reducing sunlight
• Protects soil from erosion caused by rain and wind

3. Green manure & cover crops

Green manure and cover crops are plants grown to improve soil, not for sale or food.
Examples include clover, vetch and other legumes.

Learners can analyse how these plants:

• Add natural nitrogen to the soil
• Hold soil together with their roots
• Protect against erosion
• Increase organic matter when mixed into the soil
• Make soil more fertile and healthy

4. No‑till farming

No‑till farming means planting seeds without ploughing or disturbing the soil deeply.

Learners can explain that no‑till:

• Protects natural soil structure
• Keeps microorganisms, insects and earthworms safe
• Reduces soil erosion
• Improves water absorption
• Stores carbon in the soil, supporting climate goals
• Strengthens soil health over time