By Scout Nelson
Improving soil organic matter is essential for sustainable farming and maintaining soil health, according to experts. It offers long-term benefits, including better nutrient cycling, water retention, and resilience against environmental challenges.
Role of Microbes in Soil Health
Soil microbes decompose crop residues, releasing nutrients for plants. High carbon-to-nitrogen (C: N) ratios in residues, such as corn, can lead to nitrogen immobilization, temporarily tying up nitrogen. Balanced residues, like legumes, reduce this effect.
Practices to Build Soil Organic Matter
Building soil organic matter requires consistent practices:
- Reduce Tillage: Minimizing tillage prevents carbon release into the atmosphere, retaining organic matter in the soil.
- Plant Cover Crops: Cover crops prevent nutrient loss, improve soil structure, and provide organic material for microbes.
- Crop Rotation and Diversity: Diverse crop rotations promote balanced C:N ratios, aiding efficient decomposition and nutrient cycling.
These practices contribute to long-term soil health, preventing erosion, improving drought resilience, and maintaining productivity.
Benefits of Soil Organic Matter
Soil organic matter enhances:
Chemical Properties: Retaining nutrients, stabilizing pH, and increasing cation exchange capacity.
Physical Properties: Improving water infiltration, water-holding capacity, and reducing compaction.
Biological Properties: Supporting microbial diversity and accelerating nutrient cycling.
Types of Soil Organic Matter
- Active: Fresh residues, forming within months and influenced by management.
- Slow: Intermediate decomposition, forming over years.
- Stable: Fully decomposed matter, creating dark, nutrient-rich topsoil.
Investing in soil organic matter ensures resilient, productive soils for future generations and fosters sustainable agricultural ecosystems.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-dmytro-diedov
Categories: North Dakota, General