Modern agriculture can benefit from embracing microbial diversity from "summary" of The Hidden Half of Nature: The Microbial Roots of Life and Health by David R. Montgomery,Anne Biklé
The health of our soils and plants is intimately tied to the diversity of microbes living within them. Modern agriculture, with its heavy reliance on chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, has inadvertently disrupted this delicate balance. By embracing microbial diversity, farmers can improve the health and productivity of their crops while also reducing their reliance on harmful chemicals. Microbes play a crucial role in the nutrient cycle of plants, breaking down organic matter into forms that can be easily absorbed by plant roots. This not only increases the availability of nutrients to plants but also improves soil structure, water retention, and overall soil health. By promoting a diverse microbial community in the soil, farmers can create a self-sustaining system that requires fewer inputs and produces higher yields. In addition to imp...
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