Glossary

Sealed surfaces are soils that are separated from the atmosphere by hard surface coverings with virtually impermeable materials (asphalt, concrete, etc.) or by the direct superstructure of buildings.

In soil science, “siltation” refers to the displacement of soil particles through the influence of rain. The consequences are the closure of soil pores, which reduces water drainage and the filter effect, levelling, erosion and crust formation after drying. This hinders plant growth.

With new plantings, the soil material is usually loosely stored around the roots and there is plenty of air in the soil material. In order to completely cover the fine roots with soil and to largely displace the air, the plant is watered sufficiently. This process is referred to as “slurrying in”.

Sod tiles are pieces of grass separated from the ground with a thin layer of soil in which the roots are located.

The term “soil beings / creatures” (Edaphon) is used to refer to all the organisms living in the soil.

Soil conditioners are soil-improving soil additives that can increase soil fertility and soil life. Due to their low nutrient content, soil additives are not considered fertilizers.

Soil crumbs consists of clay and humus particles, pores filled with water, and sand. They are held together by electrostatic forces.

Soil degradation describes the destruction or permanent change of the natural characteristics of a soil. This can be caused, among other things, by anthropogenic influences or climate changes.

Soil erosion describes the removal or displacement of the soil due to external influences. The main causes of soil erosion are rain (due to runoff) and wind.

Soil formation is very different depending on the location. As a result, soils do not have a uniform structure, but are divided into layers that are more or less parallel to the surface. These layers, which differ in their properties, are called “soil horizons”. In general, the rock layer is at the very bottom, the