Prior organic farming practices and plantings can have lasting outcomes for future soil health, weeds and crop yields, according to Cornell research published Nov. 13 in the journal Agricultural Systems.
Prior organic farming practices and plantings can have lasting outcomes for future soil health, weeds and crop yields, according to Cornell research published Nov. 13 in the journal Agricultural Systems.
The study also breaks down how specific components of soil health – such as the abundance and activity of soil animals and soil stability – affect crop productivity.
“With growing interest from farmers in being able to harness and exploit soil health, this research really helps us to get to the point of being more and more prescriptive about it,” said Kyle Wickings, associate professor of entomology and co-author of the study.
Also, the study reinforced our understanding that soil animals, such as mites and other tiny critters living in soil, play critical roles in soil health and crop productivity.
Read more at Cornell University
Photo: Past nutrient inputs, tillage, weed management and the preceding crop all produce lasting effects on soil health and crop yields. CREDIT: Cornell University
