What soil amendment increases the moisture retention capabilities of soil and provides organic material ultimately enriching the soil?

What soil amendment increases the moisture retention capabilities of soil and provides organic material ultimately enriching the soil?

• A. Sand
• B. Bone meal
• C. Gypsum
• D. Peat Moss

Answer: (D)

Adding organic matter to soil boosts its ability to hold onto water while also feeding soil life and improving structure. Peat moss fits this goal best because it is a highly absorbent organic material. When mixed into soil, peat mossacts like a sponge, trapping moisture and slowly releasing it to plant roots. As it decomposes over time, it adds organic matter that gradually enriches the soil, supporting better structure, aeration, and nutrient availability. Sand, by contrast, has large particles that create gaps and drain water quickly, so it reduces moisture retention. Bone meal provides phosphorus and other nutrients but doesn’t help the soil hold water or add organic material. Gypsum helps improve soil structure and add calcium and sulfur in some soils, but it doesn’t contribute significant organic matter or moisture retention.

Adding organic matter to soil boosts its ability to hold onto water while also feeding soil life and improving structure. Peat moss fits this goal best because it is a highly absorbent organic material. When mixed into soil, peat mossacts like a sponge, trapping moisture and slowly releasing it to plant roots. As it decomposes over time, it adds organic matter that gradually enriches the soil, supporting better structure, aeration, and nutrient availability.

Sand, by contrast, has large particles that create gaps and drain water quickly, so it reduces moisture retention. Bone meal provides phosphorus and other nutrients but doesn’t help the soil hold water or add organic material. Gypsum helps improve soil structure and add calcium and sulfur in some soils, but it doesn’t contribute significant organic matter or moisture retention.