Utilize kitchen scraps, yard waste, and other organic materials to create nutrient-rich compost. Compost improves soil structure.
Plant cover crops such as legumes or grasses during the off-season to prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds, and add organic matter to the soil when tilled under.
Apply organic mulch such as straw, wood chips, or shredded leaves to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth.
Rotate crops annually to prevent soil depletion of specific nutrients and minimize pest and disease buildup. Different plant families have varying nutrient needs.
Harness the power of earthworms to decompose organic matter and create nutrient-rich vermicompost. Vermicomposting accelerates the composting process.
Incorporate biochar—a form of charcoal produced from organic matter—into the soil to improve nutrient retention, enhance microbial activity, and increase soil fertility and structure.
Utilize natural fertilizers such as compost tea, seaweed extracts, or bone meal to supplement soil nutrients and promote healthy plant growth without synthetic chemicals.
Adopt no-till gardening practices to minimize soil disturbance, preserve soil structure and microbial communities, and reduce erosion and nutrient runoff.
Regularly test soil pH and nutrient levels to identify deficiencies or imbalances. Amend soil accordingly with natural minerals or organic supplements to optimize growing.
Inoculate soil with beneficial microorganisms such as mycorrhizal fungi or rhizobia to improve nutrient uptake, enhance plant resilience to stress, and foster healthy soil.