Traditional farming practices promote microbial diversity from "summary" of The Hidden Half of Nature: The Microbial Roots of Life and Health by David R. Montgomery,Anne Biklé
Traditional farming practices have long been known to foster a rich diversity of microbes in the soil. This is not surprising, given that agriculture has relied on the interactions between plants and soil microorganisms for thousands of years. By cultivating crops in a way that mimics natural ecosystems, farmers inadvertently create conditions that support a wide range of beneficial microbes. One key aspect of traditional farming that promotes microbial diversity is the use of organic matter as a fertilizer. When farmers apply compost, manure, or other organic materials to their fields, they provide a source of nutrients for a variety of microorganisms. These microbes break down the organic matter, releasing essential nutrients that can be taken up by plants. In turn, the plants provide sugars and other compounds that nourish the microbes, forming a symbiotic relationship that benefits both parties. Another important factor is crop rotation, a practice that has been used for centuries to maintain soil fertility and control pests. By pl...
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