In what ways do plants benefits from humus?

Humus:

1. Humus is the organic matter present in the soil.
2. It consists of dead and decaying plant and animal substances.
3. Humus is rich in nutrients and minerals that promote plant growth.

The following are the benefits of plants from humus:

Nutrients:

1. Humus improves soil fertility by providing nutrients to plants and soil organisms.
2. It includes nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorous, calcium and potassium.
3. Nitrogen is one of the most important nutrients for plants.

Soil protection:

1. Humus prevents erosion by holding particles of soil.
2. It protects the soil from extreme temperature, maintains pH level and helps the root structure of plants to grow.

Water holding capacity:

1. Humus absorbs and holds water, which is beneficial to plants.
2. It maintains the moisture level and allows proper amount of water to penetrate down to the roots.

Buffering capacity:

1. Humus protects the soil microbes and plants by forming complexes with metal ions, including harmful pollutants, and reduces the toxic substances present in soil.