Soil Microorganisms: Who Needs 'Em?

Overview

Objectives/Goals Soil may look like a bunch of dirt, but good quality soil is actually a complex mixture of dirt, nutrients, microorganisms, insects and worms. What type of benefit do these microorganisms offer a growing plant? I tested this by baking and freezing soil to try and sterilize it and kill the microorganisms. I hypothesized that, "If I plant 8 radish seeds in soil that has microorganisms and is unsterile, and 8 radish seeds in two other containers where the soil has been sterilized, then I predict that the radish seeds planted in the unsterilized soil will grow better because of the microorganisms in the soil." Methods/Materials I baked a sample of soil in 300 degrees for 2 hours. I froze soil in my freezer for 2 hours as well. I planted the radish seeds in each of the three different soils; baked, frozen and non sterile soil. Results The soil that was untouched and full of microogganisms did much better then the two sterilized soils. The plants grew faster, were fuller, taller and healthier. Conclusions/Discussion I proved my hypothesis correct and learned that caring for soil and preparing it with nutrients and additives to keep the microorganisms thriving and healthy, is very important!

Competition history

• CSEF 2012 Plant Biology · Entry J1932

Resources

• CSEF project summary ↗

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