Which practice can help improve soil health beyond crop rotation?

Integrating cover crops is an effective practice for improving soil health because it contributes to a range of benefits that enhance soil structure, nutrient content, and overall fertility. Cover crops, which are planted during the off-season or between main crops, help to prevent soil erosion, suppress weed growth, and promote biodiversity in the soil ecosystem. They add organic matter as they grow and decompose, which improves soil tilth and the capacity to retain moisture.

Moreover, certain cover crops, like legumes, can fix atmospheric nitrogen, enriching the soil with this essential nutrient and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. This approach contributes to a healthier soil microbiome, increases habitat for beneficial organisms, and enhances the soil's ability to sequester carbon, ultimately resulting in more resilient agricultural systems.