Ways a Farmer Can Increase the Biological Activity in a Soil

Evaluating Soil Conditions

• The first step toward increasing biological activity is to evaluate existing soil conditions. Soil consistency is the first indicator. Compacted soil or soil that is forming clods or crusts indicates a lack of adequate organic matter, the fuel for biological activity. Soil color can also be telling. Darker brown to black soil tends to be biologically rich, whereas dull brown soils often require improvement. Visible biological activity should be noted, such as the presence of earthworms or beneficial insects.

Decreasing Farming Activities That Deplete Organic Matter

• Organic matter provides food for organisms, creating processes that release nutrients into the soil. As a rule, most farming activities deplete organic matter. Excessive tilling disrupts the soil microenvironment, and speeds up decomposition of organic matter. Over-farming, or failing to rotate crops, also leaves soil diminished. Overuse of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides can result in soil virtually devoid of biological activity. Therefore, use of such products should be carefully considered and targeted.

Bacteria and Fungi

• Bacteria and fungi account for more than 80 percent of the biological activity occurring in soil. These organisms require soils with proper chemical balance and a supply of organic material. Mulching and adding compost can protect soils from degradation, and increase organic components. A cover crop can be planted as part of crop rotation during fallow periods to protect soil from erosion, to improve organic content and to help balance chemical components of the soil.

Biological Fertilizers and Inoculates

• Biological fertilizers and inoculates add microorganisms to soil, improving soil fertility and the ability of plants to absorb nutrients. Some biofertilizers are beneficial bacteria that stimulate plant roots to absorb nitrogen, aiding growth. Others increase decomposition of crop residues, increasing soil nutrients available for plants. Some fungus inoculants help plants absorb water and a variety of soil nutrients. Most microorganisms require an adequate supply of organic matter as food. Therefore, when inoculating soil, it is important to add compost regularly to maintain populations of microorganisms.