Organic Matter
/or-GAN-ik MAT-er/🪨 Soil Types● Basic
Also known as: humus, soil organic matter, SOM
The fraction of soil composed of plant residues, animal remains, and microbial biomass in various stages of decomposition. Organic matter improves soil structure, water-holding capacity, nutrient availability, and biological activity. Most productive soils contain 3-6% organic matter. Building organic matter is a long-term process.
Etymology
Greek organikos (of or pertaining to an organ) + Latin materia (substance)
Example
“Adding compost and using cover crops steadily builds soil organic matter over several years.”