ABSTRACT

Soils are a complex and ever-changing mix of minerals, organic material both living and dead, water, and gases. Their chemistry, physical structure, and biological processes are intricately entwined to create a vibrant support system for terrestrial life. Soil quality can make or break urban tree plantings, and poor soil management is a contributing or deciding factor for a host of urban forest maladies from pest predation to decline associated with construction damage.