Definition: Edaphology is the scientific study of soils, particularly in relation to their physical characteristics, classification, distribution, and the effects they have on plant life. It is a branch of soil science that focuses specifically on the influence of soils on living organisms, especially plants.
Etymology and Origin: The word ‘edaphology’ is derived from Greek roots. ‘Edaphos’ means ‘ground’ or ‘soil’, and ‘-logy’ is a suffix indicating ‘study of’ or ‘science’. Thus, edaphology translates to ‘the study of soil’. The term was coined in the early 20th century as a distinct field within soil science.
