Dr. Kristin Nichols, Rodale Institute
Regenerating soil by increasing soil organic matter and biological activity enhances nutrient cycling and water use efficiency. As a result, crop plants are healthier and more resistant to pests and diseases, but more importantly, the nutritive quality of grains, fruits and vegetables is increased due to higher mineral content as well as phytonutrients. Certain key phytonutrients – amino acids and antioxidants – are created by soil microbes and find their way into the food chain through healthy soils. Better water use efficiency and nutrient cycling will help plants thrive under drought conditions. In addition, increasing soil organic matter and biological activity improves porosity through the formation of soil aggregates which allows for higher infiltration rates and better water holding capacity.