Principle 3: Plant diversity

Diversity above ground supports diversity below ground. Soil microorganisms depend on plant root exudates for their survival. In multicultural systems, soil microbes are fed by different plant species. In contrast, in monoculture systems, soil microorganisms are fed by a single annual plant type. This is similar to a person eating the same food every day for about 60-100 days.

We can try to restore the original plant community by adding crop rotations that include at least 4 crop species. Diverse crop rotations provide more biodiversity, which improves water infiltration, nutrient cycling and reduces pests and diseases.

This article is based on information kindly provided by the laboratory Ward Laboratories, Inc.