Which sustainable practice is known to encourage soil biodiversity?

Cover cropping is recognized for its ability to enhance soil biodiversity. This sustainable practice involves planting specific crops during off-seasons or between main crop cycles. These cover crops, such as clover or rye, help protect the soil from erosion, improve soil structure, and promote the presence of beneficial microorganisms and insects in the soil. By fostering a diverse range of plant life, cover crops create an environment that supports the complex interactions among soil organisms, leading to healthier and more resilient soil ecosystems.

In contrast, practices like monoculture planting limit biodiversity by growing only one type of plant over a large area, which can deplete specific nutrients and weaken soil health. Heavy tillage disrupts soil structure, destroys habitats for microorganisms, and can lead to soil compaction, adversely affecting biodiversity. Similarly, the application of pesticides can harm non-target organisms, disrupting the natural balance within the soil ecosystem and further reducing biodiversity. Thus, cover cropping stands out as a practice that not only supports but actively promotes soil biodiversity.