Terra Preta soils

Terra Preta soils, also known as Amazonian dark earths, are rich, fertile soils found in the Amazon Basin. They were created by indigenous peoples thousands of years ago through the deliberate addition of organic waste, charcoal, and pottery fragments. This mix enhances soil fertility, increases water retention, and supports abundant plant growth. Unlike typical rainforest soils, Terra Preta remains highly productive over centuries, making it valuable for sustainable agriculture. Its resilience and nutrient-holding capacity have attracted scientific interest as a model for improving degraded or nutrient-poor soils elsewhere.