The University of Idaho has used the simple cotton underwear test in its Magic Valley Soil Health Project, where it has collected information about the condition of the soil in 34 fields for almost three years. In the test, cotton fabric is buried underground to give an indication of microbial activity in the soil. The soil contains billions of microbes such as bacteria and fungi that keep decomposing organic materials without making any noise. The more active the microbes are, the quicker they can decompose organic materials, including cotton. Therefore, the condition of a newly buried pair of briefs after two months can provide visual evidence of activity underground.
This way of thinking is part of an overall change in perceptions when it comes to soil. For a long time, soil was something that simply happened, something to till, plant into, and forget about. More gardeners and small-scale growers are paying attention to soil quality. Healthy soil can support healthier plants, help hold on to water, and reduce the need for some chemical inputs, among other things.
