Humus (Organic Matter)

Organic matter is that fraction of the soil that is the result of plant and/or animal matter. It is very important constituents of the soil, it provides a home for millions bacteria, aids in the retention of moisture, supplies nutrients for the plants, enhances aeration and aggregation and reduce soil erosion. A good soil should have 3-5%organic matter. Organic matter is very difficult to build up because it is being used constantly.

Procedure for test  

1. Add two Soil Measure of soil in an Extracting Tube.
2. Fill test tube to 14ml mark with demineralized water cap and shake.
3. Add 1.0g of Humus Screening Reagent, if necessary add demineralized water to return to 14ml mark. Cap and shake for one minute.
4. Add 15 drops of Soil Flocculating Reagent, cap and shake.
5. Let soil settled then filter the mixture.
6. Compare the clear filtrate in the second tube with the Humus Color Chart.

Taking a soil sample