What is one key advantage of soil as a growing medium?

One key advantage of soil as a growing medium is its higher cation exchange capacity (CEC). Cation exchange capacity refers to the ability of soil to hold and exchange positively charged ions, or cations, such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which are essential nutrients for plant growth. A high CEC indicates that the soil can retain more nutrients and make them available to plants, supporting healthy development and growth.

Soil's structure, organic matter content, and composition significantly influence its CEC. It allows for improved nutrient retention, reducing the frequency of fertilization required while promoting a balanced nutrient profile in the root zone. Consequently, this property makes soil an excellent choice for cultivating a wide variety of plants, as it provides a stable nutrient environment, helping to ensure successful growth.