the uppermost layer of soil, rich in organic matter incorporated from the decay of plants and the activities of micro-organisms, intermixed with mineral matter derived from the underlying subsoil
the upper, cultivated layer of soil, which may vary in depth from 8 to 45 cm It contains organic matter - the decayed remains of vegetation, which plants need for active growth - along with a varietyof soil organisms, including earthworms
1 A vague term applied to the upper layer of soil 2 The "plow layer" or upper 6 to 8 inches of soil 3 The "A" horizons of a soil 4 A term used to indicate friable, fertile soil applied over other soil to improve conditions for plant growth
The first true layer of soil; layer in which organic material is mixed with mineral particles; thickness ranges from a meter or more under virgin prairie to zero in some deserts
-A part of the soil profile, typically the A1 horizon, containing material which is usually darker, more fertile and better structured than the underlying layers
The upper part of the soil, which is the most favorable material for plant growth It is ordinarily rich in organic matter and is used to topdress roadbanks, lawns, and land affected by mining