The soil is a very important component that transcends different aspects of ecological requirements.
The soil is related to —
(a) Water - Its presence in the soil strata makes cultivation and afforestation possible.
(b) Nitrogen and other gases - Air particles in the soil and the atmosphere support nitrogen fixation and photosynthesis.
(c) Plant life — Plants and the soil share a "give and take" relation; while plants absorb water and nutrients from the soil, it prevents soil erosion by anchoring in the soil with the help of its roots.
(d) Minerals — Various minerals in the soil support photosynthesis in plants.
(e) Microorganisms — Lastly, decomposers and other such microorganisms play a significant role in the growth of plants and in the soil as well.
