What is a primary factor in determining soil health?

The primary factor in determining soil health is organic matter content. Organic matter plays a crucial role in maintaining soil quality as it enhances the soil's structure, increases its ability to retain moisture and nutrients, and fosters a healthy ecosystem for microorganisms. High organic matter levels improve aeration and drainage, support plant growth, and help to sequester carbon, thereby contributing to biodiversity and soil resilience.

While soil texture, pH level, and water retention capacity are important characteristics of soil, they do not have the same comprehensive effect on soil health as organic matter. Soil texture can influence water retention and root penetration, but it is not as effective in enhancing nutrient availability and microbial activity. pH level affects nutrient solubility and microbial processes, yet it is one aspect of a broader picture. Water retention capacity is significant for plant growth but primarily reflects the physical properties of the soil rather than its biological or chemical health. Thus, organic matter content stands out as the key indicator of overall soil health because of its multi-faceted contributions to soil function and sustainability.