Soil Your Undies Challenge
Dig into soil with the soil your undies challenge!
Minnesota’s agricultural industry depends on natural resources like fresh air, rich soil, clean water and a good climate. That's why our farmers and others must act as stewards and take good care of the land, protecting these important resources.
TAKE THE SOIL YOUR UNDIES CHALLENGE
The challenge is on! To complete the Soil Your Undies Challenge you will need: One pair of white, unwashed 100% cotton underwear, a shovel, and a flag to mark where you planted the undies.
"Plant" a pair of new 100% cotton underwear by burying them horizontally about 3 inches deep. Don't forget to mark the spot you planted! Wait at least 60 days before you dig them back up to see what's left.
How can the soil your undies challenge be used to tell how healthy your soil is?
Your undies won't break down in just any soil. Healthy soil contains billions of microbes that consume the cotton in undies. In fact, one teaspoon of healthy soil contains more microbes than there are people on the planet. The term soil microbes is short for “microscopic organisms”. Most soil microbes can be classified into four broad categories: bacteria, protozoa, fungi and viruses. In addition to chowing down on organic matter like cotton, these helpful microbes also help soil resist erosion, hold nutrients, and store water. Soil microbes are a farmer's best friend!
Soil is the foundation of nearly every living thing on our planet!
Soil is more than just dirt — it is an ecosystem full of life. Just like our human organs perform functions that keep us healthy, healthy soil performs important functions that promote a healthy environment! Healthy soil is able to filter water, serve as habitat for billions of living organisms, support growing plants that give us food, and much more!
Soil health is important because it affects the food we eat, the water we drink, and the places where we live.
In Minnesota, the soil is shaped by powerful forces — glacial activity, weathering, and erosion. These natural processes have worked together to create the landscape we see around us.
Now it's your turn!
Have your classroom take a before and after picture of the undies you plant and share it with us!
