Ways to foster a rich living community in the ground we farm on
It’s true: one teaspoon of healthy soil contains more creatures than there are people on the whole earth (source: soils.org.uk).
And it turns out that all those microorganisms are vital for life – the life of the soil, the food it produces, and our lives as consumers. Maintaining a healthy soil microbiome, then, is key to regenerative farming. In particular, soil microbes are involved in nutrient cycling processes, breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients in plant-available forms. They mineralize organic compounds, releasing nitrogen, phosphorus, and other micronutrients vital for plant growth.
The activities of soil microorganisms also contribute to the soil’s physical and chemical properties, influencing nutrient availability and uptake by plants. They enhance soil structure, porosity, and water-holding capacity, promoting optimal root development and nutrient absorption.
By maintaining a diverse and balanced soil microbiome through regenerative farming practices, the nutrient density of plants can be significantly enhanced. Better farming ultimately produces better food!
Which regenerative farming practices play a crucial role in promoting the health of the soil microbiome?
- Cover cropping involves planting specific crops, such as legumes or grasses, during fallow periods to protect and nourish the soil. These cover crops contribute organic matter and release root exudates that serve as food sources for beneficial soil microorganisms.
- Crop rotation helps break pest and disease cycles, reducing the reliance on chemical inputs. It also diversifies the root exudates and residues in the soil, stimulating the growth of different microbial populations.
- Reduced tillage practices minimize soil disturbance, preserving the natural structure and microbial habitats. This allows soil microorganisms to thrive and perform essential functions such as nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and disease suppression.
- Furthermore, regenerative farming emphasizes the use of organic amendments, such as compost and manure, which introduce beneficial microorganisms to the soil. These additions contribute to microbial diversity and activity, enhancing soil fertility and nutrient availability.
The collective impact of these regenerative practices is the promotion of a balanced and resilient soil microbiome. A diverse microbial community improves soil structure, enhances nutrient cycling efficiency, increases water holding capacity, and suppresses pathogens. Ultimately, a healthy soil microbiome contributes to sustainable and productive agricultural systems, while reducing the need for synthetic inputs and mitigating environmental impacts.
Learn more about the difference between conventional, organic, and regenerative farms on our Verification Standards page. To see which standards farms must meet to become ABOV-certified, visit our standards page . Interested in becoming ABOV-certified? Contact us.
