Soil is an abiotic (non-living) component of an ecosystem. It provides the substratum for plant growth as also water, nutrients and minerals. Soil contains a number of micro-organisms and it cannot provide a disease-resistant environment for plants.

Soil provides a disease-resistant environment for plants. This statement is incorrect.

Explanation:
Soil is a crucial component for plant growth and provides various essential elements and conditions to support plant growth. However, it does not inherently provide a disease-resistant environment for plants.

Soil provides water and minerals for the plant:
- Soil acts as a reservoir for water, which is essential for plant growth and survival. The roots of plants absorb water from the soil, which is then transported to different parts of the plant.
- Soil also contains essential minerals such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are necessary for plant growth. These minerals are absorbed by the roots from the soil and are used by the plants for various physiological processes.

Soil provides necessary nutrients for plants:
- In addition to water and minerals, soil also provides various nutrients that are essential for plant growth. These include macronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as micronutrients such as iron, zinc, and copper. Plants obtain these nutrients from the soil and use them for various metabolic processes.

Soil provides the substratum for plant growth:
- The soil serves as a physical support for plant roots and provides a stable anchorage for plants. It allows the roots to penetrate and spread through the soil, enabling the plants to extract water and nutrients effectively.
- The soil also acts as a storage medium for organic matter, which improves soil structure, water-holding capacity, and nutrient availability.

However, soil does not inherently provide a disease-resistant environment for plants:
- Soil can harbor various pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and nematodes, which can cause diseases in plants. These pathogens can infect the roots, stems, leaves, or fruits of plants, leading to reduced growth, yield losses, or even plant death.
- Plant diseases can be caused by various factors, including pathogens present in the soil, infected plant residues, contaminated water, or infected seeds. Therefore, soil alone cannot provide a disease-resistant environment for plants.

In conclusion, while soil is essential for plant growth and provides water, minerals, and necessary nutrients, it does not inherently provide a disease-resistant environment for plants. Plant diseases can occur due to various factors, including the presence of pathogens in the soil.