Soil Quality

The soil bulk density, also known as dry bulk density, is the weight of dry soil divided by total soil volume. The total soil volume is the combined volume of solids and pores which may contain air or water, or both. The average values of air, water and solid in soil are readily measured and are a useful indication of a soils physical condition. Soil bulk density and porosity (the number of pore spaces) reflects the size, shape and arrangement of particles and voids (soil structure) Both bulk density and porosity give a good indication of the suitability for root growth and soil permeability and are vitally important for the soil-plant-atmosphere system. It is generally desireable to have soil with a low bulk density for optimum movement of air and water through the soil.