Soil Health: What’s Really Going on Beneath the Surface?

What happens below the ground’s surface is critical, and for too long, conventional farming practices have overlooked the vital role of the soil microbiome in crop health.

Picture this: a seed falls into undisturbed soil in a forest. Without intervention, it sends out signals to surrounding microbes, forming partnerships it needs for survival. If a plant requires phosphorus, for example, it can’t just go and grab it. Instead, it relies on beneficial microbes to access this critical nutrient. The plant emits sugars into the soil, feeding these microbes in exchange for phosphorus. It’s a straightforward arrangement, but one that chemical agriculture often ignores.

In fact, many current agricultural practices unwittingly harm beneficial microbes. Tillage, fungicides, and excessive chemical inputs all contribute to a harsh environment for these organisms. Pathogens are opportunists; they take advantage of weakened microbial communities. When beneficial microbes are diminished, it allows disease-causing organisms to proliferate. This creates a cycle where farmers become stuck on a treadmill — applying more inputs to combat the very problems that have arisen from poor soil management.

The reality is, most chemical fertilizers are salt-based and prone to leaching and volatilization. Instead of boosting plant health, these practices can destabilize soil ecosystems. The microbes present in the soil aren’t robbing your plants of nutrients; they’re actually critical players in nutrient cycling. When managed correctly, these microbes can hold onto fertilizers, effectively capturing them in the soil. This means that, with the right understanding of microbial functions, you could substantially reduce your fertilizer application.

The introduction of products designed to reintegrate beneficial microbes into your soil isn’t just a trend; it’s a vital step towards sustainable agricultural practices. Many products on the market offer just one or two species of bacteria, which can only perform limited functions. In contrast, a well-crafted microbial product will feature a diverse range of organisms that can thrive in challenging soil conditions, enhancing nutrient uptake and plant health.

It’s not enough to plant seeds and apply fertilizers; we need to cultivate a healthy soil ecosystem. The link between root health and plant health is undeniable — over 50 per cent of plant life exists underground. If you’re not digging into your soil’s ecosystem, you’re missing half the story.