What is a common practice to improve soil health?

Prepare for the Montana FFA Agronomy Test with detailed quizzes and explanatory questions. Enhance your understanding and get exam-ready with our structured study aids.

Crop rotation is a common practice used to improve soil health because it involves alternating the types of crops grown in a particular area over time. This practice enhances soil organic matter and nutrient cycling, reduces soil erosion, and can interrupt pest and disease cycles. By alternating deep-rooted and shallow-rooted plants, crop rotation helps to maintain balanced nutrient levels in the soil, preventing depletion of specific nutrients that can occur with continuous planting of the same crop. Additionally, beneficial microorganisms can thrive in diverse cropping systems, further enhancing soil structure and health.

In contrast, practices such as over-tilling or excessive fertilization can deteriorate soil structure and lead to nutrient runoff, while mono-cropping can deplete soil nutrients and increase vulnerability to pests and diseases due to a lack of biodiversity. Thus, crop rotation stands out as an effective regenerative technique that promotes a healthier soil ecosystem.

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