How can you increase soil organic matter?

Increasing soil organic matter is crucial for enhancing soil health, fertility, and overall ecosystem function. Proper management of plant materials contributes significantly to this goal. This can involve practices such as incorporating cover crops, maintaining crop residues, and utilizing compost. When plant materials are effectively managed, they decompose and are incorporated into the soil, increasing organic matter content over time.

Additionally, the activity of soil microorganisms is stimulated through the addition of organic materials, leading to further breakdown and enrichment of the soil with organic matter. This not only improves the nutrient-holding capacity of the soil but also enhances water retention and supports biodiversity within the soil ecosystem.

Other methods, like reducing crop residues or compacting the soil, will negatively impact organic matter levels by either removing valuable organic inputs or degrading soil structure, respectively. Adding synthetic fertilizers typically focuses on nutrient supply without contributing to organic matter content, thereby not addressing the long-term health of the soil.