Garden & Greenhouse May 2019 Issue | Page 36

FEATURESTORY by Bill Baugh Improving Soil Quality using Management Practices S oil quality is the most important factor for long term agricultural productivity. A good soil manager will monitor the organic content of the soil, water hold- ing capacity, and a host of other soil quality parameters. Soil quality also re- lies on the diversity of beneficial soil microorganisms. Wise management practices could improve soil quality Surface soil produces our food and is vital for life. This precious resource often is called “skin of the Earth” and, just as skin, it is important to protect and maintain its quality. Soil quality is the inherent capac- ity of a particular soil to support human health and habitation; maintain or enhance air and water quality; and, most important, sustain plant and animal produc- tivity. From an agricultural standpoint, soil quality is vital for improving long-term agricultural productivity and maximizing profits through sustainable productiv- ity. It is important for soil both to function optimally for current needs and remain healthy for future use. Soil organic matter, tillage, soil compaction, soil struc- 36 ture, depth of soil, water-holding capacity, electrical conductivity, pH, ground cover, microbial biodiversity, carbon-to-nitrogen ratio and nutrient management are some of the important parameters of soil quality. Improving and maintaining soil organic matter content is the most important quality parameter. In- creasing organic matter improves soil structure as well as water- and nutrient-holding capacity, supports soil microbes, and protects soil from erosion and compac- tion. Organic matter can be improved by using no-till or minimum till methods, growing cover crops, leav- ing crop residues and using rotations with crops that balance optimal water and nutrient management prac- tices. Using reduced tillage practices helps protect the soil surface, which decreases soil erosion and soil www.GardenandGreenhouse.net May 2019