Part 2/8:
Farmer Jesse emphasizes that soil health is not solely about the nutrients present but rather the overall condition of the soil. Often, visible deficiencies in plants—be it stunted growth or increased susceptibility to pests—are not a direct result of nutrient scarcity but are instead a consequence of poor soil structure or compaction. He asserts that to effectively amend soil, farmers must first ensure the soil is well-structured and can provide the necessary nutrients to plants.
The Essentials of Soil Management
While many practices exist to enhance soil fertility, Jesse highlights several core principles that, if addressed, significantly improve soil health and minimize the need for additional amendments. These principles are outlined as follows: