March 29, 2024
Updated May 12, 2025
18 minute read
Soil science is the study of soil as a natural resource on the Earth's surface. It's an interdisciplinary field that involves understanding soil formation, classification, and mapping. Soil scientists also investigate the physical, chemical, biological, and fertility properties of soils, and how these properties relate to soil use and management. This field plays a critical role in addressing some of our most pressing global challenges, from food security to climate change.
Working as a soil scientist can be deeply engaging. You might find yourself analyzing the intricate composition of soils to improve agricultural productivity or developing strategies to remediate contaminated land. The work often involves a mix of field and laboratory activities, providing a dynamic and varied work environment. Furthermore, soil scientists contribute to vital environmental protection efforts, helping to ensure that human development occurs in harmony with the natural world.
What is Soil Science?
At its core, soil science delves into the thin layer of material covering our planet that we call soil. This seemingly simple substance is a complex mixture of weathered minerals, organic matter, air, and water. It's the foundation for much of life on Earth, providing a medium for plant growth, filtering water, recycling nutrients, and offering a habitat for countless organisms. Soil scientists aim to understand these crucial functions and how to manage soils sustainably.
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Find a path to becoming a Soil Scientist. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/career/y4jkp4/soil
Reading list
We've selected some books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Soil Scientist.
Classic textbook in soil science, providing a comprehensive overview of the subject, from soil formation and classification to soil chemistry and fertility.
Directly addresses the critical link between agroforestry and climate change, covering adaptation, mitigation, and livelihood security. It is highly relevant to contemporary discussions on climate-smart agriculture and provides in-depth analysis. Suitable for graduate students, researchers, and policymakers.
This practical guide focuses on silvopasture, a specific agroforestry practice integrating livestock, forages, and trees. It offers practical advice and case studies for temperate regions, making it highly relevant for those interested in this particular system. It is suitable for farmers, students, and extension agents.
This comprehensive textbook provides a rich source of knowledge and practical information on agroforestry theory and practices. It is intended for a wide audience, including students, professors, researchers, and practitioners, covering recent developments and serving as a valuable reference.
Specifically addresses agroforestry systems and practices in tropical regions. Given the importance of tropical forest landscapes, this book is highly relevant for understanding agroforestry in these environments. Suitable for students, researchers, and practitioners working in tropical areas.
Provides a comprehensive overview of fertilizers and plant nutrition. It covers topics such as fertilizer chemistry, soil fertility, and plant nutrition.
A classic textbook that provides a comprehensive overview of soil science, including soil formation, classification, properties, and management. Suitable for students, researchers, and professionals.
A comprehensive textbook that covers the chemical processes and reactions that occur in soils. Suitable for students, researchers, and professionals in soil science and environmental sciences.
This reference book provides a comprehensive overview of soil classifications from around the world, including the most recent updates and revisions. It is an essential resource for anyone who needs to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in soil classification.
Provides a comprehensive overview of soil chemistry, covering topics such as soil minerals, organic matter, and soil pH.
Provides a comprehensive overview of soil fertility and fertilizers, covering topics such as soil nutrient management, soil fertility testing, and fertilizer application.
Provides a comprehensive overview of soil health and crop production, covering topics such as soil health indicators, soil management practices, and crop production systems.
Focuses on the crucial aspects of designing and planning agroforestry systems. It provides essential knowledge for anyone involved in establishing new agroforestry initiatives. Suitable for students and professionals involved in the practical implementation of agroforestry.
A landmark reference for agroforestry in temperate regions, this book covers practices in North America, New Zealand, Australia, China, and Europe. It is essential for understanding agroforestry outside of tropical contexts and valuable resource for students and professionals in these regions.
While focused on forest gardening, this book provides a deep dive into ecological design principles highly relevant to agroforestry systems, particularly those with a focus on edible perennial crops. It is valuable for understanding the design aspects of complex agroecosystems. Suitable for dedicated students and practitioners.
This publication provides the official criteria and definitions used for classifying soils according to the USDA soil taxonomy system. It is an indispensable tool for soil scientists and anyone working with soil classification.
Provides a detailed look at various agroforestry systems and practices, particularly with a focus on the Indian context. It is useful for understanding the diversity of agroforestry approaches globally and the factors influencing their adoption. Suitable for students and practitioners interested in regional applications.
A practical guide to sustainable agriculture that emphasizes the importance of soil health and ecological principles. Suitable for farmers, landowners, and anyone interested in sustainable land management.
A comprehensive guide to soil health, covering topics such as soil biology, fertility, and management practices. Suitable for farmers, landowners, and gardeners of all levels.
A practical guide to building and maintaining healthy soil using ecological principles. Suitable for farmers, gardeners, and anyone interested in sustainable land management.
Provides a practical guide to fertilizer use for farmers and gardeners. It covers topics such as crop nutrient requirements, fertilizer recommendations, and soil testing.
Another popular science book that highlights the role of soil health in climate change mitigation and human health. Suitable for a general audience.
A popular science book that explores the importance of soil microorganisms for plant growth, soil health, and human health. Suitable for a general audience.
A popular science book that explores the importance of soil health for food security, climate change mitigation, and human health. Suitable for a general audience.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/career/y4jkp4/soil
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