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A naturally-occurring element (atomic number 26, symbol Fe) found in the soil and is essential to plant growth. Iron deficiency leads to chlorosis.

Chemical compound calcium carbonate (symbol CaCO3). The amount of lime in the soil determines whether it's alkaline, neutral or acid.

Any bulky material supplying nutrients to the soil. May be derived from animals in the form of dung and farmyard waste, or from plants (see Green manures).

The bacteria on the roots of leguminous vegetables, or the micro-organisms found in soil, which convert atmospheric nitrogen into nitrogen compounds that can be used by plants.

A creeping stem that grows along or just beneath the soil surface, with roots arising from it. Is also a storage function.

Describes a cluster of leaves arranged in a tight circle, usually close to the soil surface, as seen on a dandelion. The term may also be used to describe the corolla of a flower.

Click beetle larvae that live in the soil. They're a pest that attacks the roots of many crops, including tubers and bulbs.

Rachel de Thame explains the secrets of the soil conditions in which alpine plants thrive, with recipes for the perfect growing medium.spring or autumnMore on growing alpinesMaking an alpine path and gravel bedPlanting up alpines video project

The washing out, usually by rain, of soluble (and some insoluble) minerals from the soil. Because some substances leach faster than others, this may cause a chemical imbalance in the soil, which, in turn, may have a detrimental effect on plants

A problem that affects trees or shrubs when they've been planted in soil where a plant of the same species had been growing. It particularly applies to members of the Rosaceae family (roses, apples, cherries, plums). Symptoms include retarded