Water Retention

• Organic soil matter retains sufficient water quantities; soil amendments, including humus and peat moss, contain a sponge-like characteristic that stores more water than weight. The organic soil particles then mesh together to form aggregate particles that trap water within them. The trapped water and air improves both aeration and water retention.
  
  

Slow Growth

• Chemical fertilizers allow for the rapid release of nutrients to permit rapid, unbalanced plant growth that leads to waste. Organic soil, however, contains soil microorganisms that gradually release nutrients in alignment with natural plant growth. The organic fertilizer disintegrates over time and, gradually, releases micronutrients ranging from potassium to copper.
  
  

Runoff

• There is a positive correlation between organic matter and soil permeability that, consequently, reduces runoff. Runoff, which occurs when soil exceeds its full water capacity, may infiltrate other locations and negatively affect life forms. Organic soil allows for fewer external costs upon the greater community. The absorbing and loosely compacted nature of organic soil slowly releases water and decreases runoff.
  
  

Air Circulation

• Oxygen is one of the most vital factors in the soil; its presence is increased by the addition of organic matter, such as peat, compost, moss and aged manure. The organic soil matter enhances air spaces within the soil that hold oxygen and, in turn, encourages microbial activity for free root growth. The amplified air pockets within the soil allow plants to utilize readily available nutrients. They also reduce compaction, which diminishes the amount of accessible oxygen space for water and matter to travel.
  
  

Pathogen Levels

• Organic soil does not require the addition of additives and chemical fertilizers. The products, over time, strip the soil of nutrients necessary to combat insect attacks, weather stress and disease. Soil depletion of organic matter is the primary cause of reason for disease and unhealthy plants, according to the Members of Organic Seed Growers and Trade Alliance. Organic soil promotes the increased productivity of healthy plant growth and provides the more rigorous flora with greater pathogen resistance.