Which agricultural practice is designed to improve the health of soil ecosystems?

Conservation tillage is an important agricultural practice focused on improving the health of soil ecosystems. This method minimizes soil disturbance, allowing for the preservation of soil structure and organic matter. By reducing tilling, this practice helps to maintain the population of beneficial microorganisms and earthworms, which are vital for soil health. It also enhances water retention and reduces erosion, leading to a more stable soil environment.

In addition, conservation tillage encourages the development of a diversified crop rotation system and the use of cover crops. These practices contribute to increased biodiversity and promote a more resilient soil ecosystem. As organic matter builds up in the soil, it enhances nutrient cycling and overall soil fertility, making it more productive in the long term.

In contrast, practices such as spreading pesticides can harm beneficial organisms and disrupt soil health, while intensive grazing can lead to soil compaction and degradation if not managed properly. Hydroponic farming, although innovative, typically does not involve soil at all, making it unrelated to the specific practice of improving soil ecosystems.