Organic amendments:
Compost: Compost is a valuable organic amendment rich in nutrients. It enhances soil structure, water retention, and microbial activity.
Manure: Animal manure adds organic matter and nutrients to the soil.
Different types (cow, chicken horse) provide varying nutrient compositions.
Cover crops: Planting cover crops like legumes improves soil fertility by fixing nitrogen and preventing erosion.
Crop residue: Incorporating residues from previous crops adds organic matter, promoting microbial activity and nutrient cycling.
Ph Adjuster:
Lime: Adding lime raises soil Ph in acidic soils. It contains calcium and magnesium, helping to neutralize acidity and improve nutrient availability.
Sulfur: Sulfur is used to lower pH in alkaline soils. It promotes the release of acids, making the soil more acidic.
Soil protection:
Mulching: Mulch, whether organic (straw, wood chips) or inorganic (plastic, fabric), helps conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate temperature.
Erosion control measures: Techniques like terracing, contour plowing, and planting cover crops mitigate soil erosion, preserving topsoil.
Windbreaks and Shelterbelts: Planting trees or shrubs as windbreaks protects soil from wind erosion and provides and microclimate for crops.
Ground cover plants: Low-growing plants act as living mulch, protecting the soil surface from erosion and promoting biodiversity.
Reduced Tillage: Minimizing tillage reduces soil disturbance, maintains soil structure, and prevent erosion.