Red Seal Landscape Horticulturist Practice Exam

How do soil amendments benefit plant health?

1. They reduce pests

2. They enhance nutrient content, improve soil texture, and increase biodiversity

3. They increase water retention

4. They provide shade for roots

The correct answer is: They enhance nutrient content, improve soil texture, and increase biodiversity

Soil amendments play a crucial role in promoting plant health by enhancing nutrient content, improving soil texture, and increasing biodiversity. When organic or inorganic materials are added to soil as amendments, they can significantly improve its nutrient profile, making essential minerals and elements more available to plant roots. This nutrient enhancement supports plant growth and development, leading to healthier and more robust plants. Additionally, soil amendments improve soil texture by modifying its structure. For instance, adding organic matter can create better aeration and drainage in heavy clay soils, while sandy soils can benefit from improved water retention. This balanced texture helps plants access the water and air they need for optimal growth. Furthermore, amendments often introduce beneficial microorganisms that contribute to soil biodiversity. This increased diversity can enhance soil health by promoting microbial activity, which aids in the breakdown of organic matter, nutrient cycling, and stronger plant-microbe interactions. While the other choices address some benefits related to soil health, they do not encompass the full range of advantages that soil amendments provide. For instance, increasing water retention and providing shade for roots are important, but they are a part of the broader benefits derived from enhancing the overall quality and health of the soil ecosystem that amendments provide.