Soil is one of New Zealand's greatest resources. This new edition of this well-established book introduces the basic soil science theory which is essential for the proper use and maintenance of this resource. it places greater emphasis on sustainable production and environmental protection and incorporates the new soil classification system. Pedology, soil chemistry and fertility, soil physics and soil management are all covered. Each subject has been placed in a New Zealand context and many specific New Zealand examples are given. Soil science theory is linked with practical soil management and fertiliser recommendation procedures. The influence of soils on environmental quality is described an emphasis placed on the soil condition affecting plant growth.

Table of Contents

List of plates; Foreword; Acknowledgments; 1. The soil profile; 2. Soil formation; 3. Classification and characteristics of New Zealand soils; 4. Soil pattern, soil mappings, soil maps and their interpretation; 5. The physical and mechanical characteristics of soils; 6. The storage of water in soil; 7. Water and solute movement in soils and plants; 8. Soil aeration and temperature; 9. Management of soil physical conditions; 10. Soil organic matter; 11. Inorganic soil colloids; 12. Ion exchange in soils and soil acidity; 13. Nutrient availablity; 14. Soil, plant and fertiliser nitrogen; 15. Soil, plant and fertiliser phosphorus; 16. Soil, plant and fertiliser sulphur; 17. Potassium, calcium , magnesium and sodium; 18. Micronutrients; 19. Soil fertility and fertiliser management; 20. Additional management considerations for horticultual and forestry soils; 21. Soils and the quality of the environment