Synopses & Reviews
Soil Science and Management, fourth edition emphasizes the human interaction with and affect on soils, rather than treating the soil as an independent element. Comprehensive, yet not intimidating, you will find this text has been revised to encompass more ecological themes within the established topics of soil science and use. Non-technical, and easy-to-understand, the fourth edition of this popular text teaches the essentials of soils from the perspective of farmers, horticulturists, environmentalists, and others who are concerned about how soils work and how they are used most effectively. An emphasis on management and the sustainable use of soils and water resources make it especially relevant to these audiences. Nutrient management, best practices and relevant legal issues and government programs make this text a practical application for agricultural and horticultural students.
Synopsis
A vital reference for professionals in any soil-related field. This book discusses soil science and use in an easy-to-read format; the latest edition covers the most recent regulatory changes and technological developments. Includes an appendix that matches preferred soil characteristics with selected trees.
Synopsis
Essential to the understanding of sustainable agriculture, the effect of human activity on soil, and the management of soil and water resources including soil nutrition and other influences, this is a solid reference and learning tool. Non-technical, and easy-to-understand, Soil Science and Management, 4E teaches the essentials of soils from the perspective of farmers, horticulturists, environmentalists, and others who are concerned about how soils work and how they are used most effectively. An emphasis on management and the sustainable use of soils and water resources make it especially relevant to these audiences. Nutrient management, best practices and relevant legal issues and government programs related to soil management make this book a popular addition to the bookshelves of farmers, horticulturists and government agricultural personnel alike.
Synopsis
This new edition introduces the concepts behind soil science and relates these concepts to current soil management practices, such as the most recent regulatory changes and technological developments: wetland management, the use of Geographic Information Systems for soil mapping, and much more. The emphasis on sustainable soil use and conservation prepares students to deal with today's enviromental issues, such as soil and water conservation, nutrient management, sustainable agriculture, and related topics. An appendix familiarizes horticultural majors with basic chemistry concepts to provide the foundation for further study in soil science.
About the Author
Edward Plaster has taught horticulture and soil science for 30 years. He belongs to the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS) and the Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS). He is a Certified Professional Horticulturist, an ASHS program and is active in several national and local trade organizations.
Table of Contents
The Importance of Soil, Soil Origin and Development, Physical Properties of Soil, Soil Water, Water Conservation, Drainage and Irrigation, Life in the Soil, Organic Matter, Soil Fertility, Soil pH and Salinity, Plant Nutrition, Soil Sampling and Testing, Fertilizers, Organic Amendments, Tillage and Cropping Systems, Horticultural Uses of Soil, Soil Classification and Survey, Soil Conservation, Urban Soil, Government Agencies and Programs, Appendix I Some Basic Chemistry, Appendix II Sedimentation Test of Soil Texture, Appendix III Soil Orders of the United States, Appendix IV Soil Horizon Symbol Suffixes, Appendix V Land Evaluation, Appendix VI Preferred Soil Characteristics for Selected Trees, Glossary, Index