Organic molecules help soil store water even in desertlike conditions

Organic molecules help soil store water even in desertlike conditions

Los Angeles CA (SPX) Aug 13, 2025 Northwestern University researchers have identified the nanoscale processes that allow organic matter to enhance soil's ability to hold water, even in extremely arid environments. The team found that carbohydrates from plants and microbes act like molecular glue, forming sticky bridges between organic compounds and soil minerals that trap water. These bridges rely on hydrogen bonds, which