What is Soil?
Soil is the top layer of the ground. It is usually brown or black. Plants grow in soil, and many small animals live in it too.
Key idea
Soil holds water, air, tiny bits of rock and dead leaves. Plants get water and food from the soil.
Why Soil is Important
- Plants push their roots into the soil to get water and food.
- Earthworms live in the soil and help it stay healthy.
- Some soil feels grainy (sandy soil) and some feels sticky (clay soil).
- Soil can be wet after rain or dry on a hot, sunny day.
Example
When you dig a garden, you can see brown soil, small stones, and maybe a wriggling earthworm. The soil may feel cool and a little wet in your hand.
Remember
- Soil is a non-living thing.
- Plants grow in soil.
- Earthworms live in soil.