MadSci Network: Agricultural Sciences |
Many things are needed for growing good crops. Soil is just one of these things. The right temperature, moisture and soil are some of the most important. Ohio does grow fairly large quantities of corn, soybeans and other crops! Volcanoes help crops grow by introducing elements crops need to grow into new soil [formed from volcanic ash] and old soil [formed when lava weathers into soil]. One element that most plants need is sulfur and most volcanoes introduce a new supply of this element when they erupt. Don't confuse volcanic eruption with climate as many volcanoes in tropical areas have lush plant growth from warm temperatures and lots of rain. Arctic volcanoes support less plant growth because of the short growing season and much colder temperatures. Ohio lies somewhere between these climate extremes. Other elements that volcanoes supply for plant growth are iron, magnesium, potassium, iodine, copper and manganese.
Try the links in the MadSci Library for more information on Agricultural Sciences.