The Soil and the Microbe (Classic Reprint): An Introduction to the Study of the Microscopic Population of the Soil and Its Rôle in Soil Processes and Plant Growth - Softcover

Selman A. Waksman

 
9781390427882: The Soil and the Microbe (Classic Reprint): An Introduction to the Study of the Microscopic Population of the Soil and Its Rôle in Soil Processes and Plant Growth

Synopsis

Explore the hidden life of soil and how microbes shape plant growth. This nonfiction introduction opens a window into the microscopic population that drives soil processes, nutrient cycles, and the health of crops. It presents how bacteria, fungi, and other tiny organisms work together to break down organic matter, release nitrogen, and influence what plants can absorb from the ground.

This edition lays out the basics of microbial life in soil, the methods scientists use to study them, and the many ways these organisms affect fertility and productivity. It connects microbial activity to practical outcomes like soil health, crop yields, and sustainable farming, all grounded in observations and experiments.


  • How microbes contribute to soil fertility and plant nutrition

  • The roles of bacteria, fungi, and other organisms in decomposition

  • How nitrogen fixation, mineral transformations, and ammonia production influence growth

  • How environmental conditions and farming practices shape the soil microbiome



Ideal for readers who want a solid, accessible overview of soil life and its impact on agriculture, gardening, and environmental stewardship. The book is a clear starting point for anyone curious about what happens underfoot and how to support a healthy soil ecosystem.

The Soil and the Microbe offers a grounded look at the microscopic world that fuels plant life and the fertility of our soils.

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