Which soil amendment increases moisture retention and provides organic material to enrich the soil?

Which soil amendment increases moisture retention and provides organic material to enrich the soil?

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

Answer: (B)

Organic matter in soil is a key factor for holding onto water and feeding soil life. Peat moss is an organic amendment that adds a substantial amount of organic material to the soil and has a high water-holding capacity. That combination means the soil can retain more moisture between rains or irrigation, while the added organic matter improves soil structure, porosity, and microbial activity, which helps roots access water more effectively. Gypsum mainly supplies calcium and improves soil structure in certain problem soils but doesn’t add organic material or dramatically boost moisture retention. Sand is inorganic and coarse, which tends to reduce moisture retention and drainage can become too quick for many plants. Bone meal provides phosphorus and other nutrients but not a notable boost to moisture retention or overall organic content. Sopeat moss best meets the goal of increasing moisture retention while enriching the soil with organic matter.

Organic matter in soil is a key factor for holding onto water and feeding soil life. Peat moss is an organic amendment that adds a substantial amount of organic material to the soil and has a high water-holding capacity. That combination means the soil can retain more moisture between rains or irrigation, while the added organic matter improves soil structure, porosity, and microbial activity, which helps roots access water more effectively.

Gypsum mainly supplies calcium and improves soil structure in certain problem soils but doesn’t add organic material or dramatically boost moisture retention. Sand is inorganic and coarse, which tends to reduce moisture retention and drainage can become too quick for many plants. Bone meal provides phosphorus and other nutrients but not a notable boost to moisture retention or overall organic content.

Sopeat moss best meets the goal of increasing moisture retention while enriching the soil with organic matter.