Soil Fertility and Crop Nutrient Management
Developing the soil fertility and plant nutrient management portion of an organic system plan requires a holistic approach that aligns with National Organic Program (NOP) standards and best practices. The foundation of organic soil fertility management is the philosophy of “feed the soil to feed the plant”. This approach focuses on building healthy, biologically active soils that can support crop growth through natural nutrient cycling processes.
Soil Testing and Monitoring: Begin by conducting regular soil tests to assess nutrient levels, pH, and organic matter content. This information will guide your fertility management decisions and help track changes over time. Consider using both standard soil tests and additional biological soil health assessments to get a complete picture of your soil’s condition.
Crop Rotations: Implement diverse crop rotations that include nitrogen-fixing legumes, deep-rooted crops, and plants with varying nutrient needs. Rotations help break pest cycles, improve soil structure, and balance nutrient use. The NOP requires producers to implement crop rotations, including sod, cover crops, green manure crops, and catch crops that provide erosion control, pest management, nutrient management, and soil organic matter increases.
Cover Crops and Green Manures: Utilize cover crops and green manures to protect soil, add organic matter, fix nitrogen, and scavenge nutrients. These practices are essential for building soil fertility and improving soil health. Choose cover crop species that complement your cash crops and address specific soil management goals.
Compost and Manure Management: Apply high-quality compost and properly managed animal manures to supply nutrients and build soil organic matter. Ensure that compost and manure applications comply with NOP standards, including specific requirements for raw manure application timing and composting processes. Keep detailed records of all compost and manure applications.
Organic Amendments: Use approved organic fertilizers and soil amendments as needed to supplement nutrient levels. These may include rock phosphate, potassium sulfate, and micronutrient sources. Always verify that products are approved for organic production, such as those listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI).
Nutrient Management Strategies
Develop a comprehensive nutrient management plan that addresses the following:
Nitrogen Management: Focus on building soil organic matter and using leguminous cover crops to supply nitrogen. Supplement with approved organic nitrogen sources as needed, based on soil test results and crop requirements.
Phosphorus and Potassium: Maintain optimal levels through the use of compost, manure, and approved mineral sources. Monitor soil test levels to prevent excessive buildup or depletion.
Micronutrients: Address micronutrient needs through diverse rotations, compost applications, and targeted use of approved micronutrient sources when deficiencies are identified.
pH Management: Maintain appropriate soil pH for crop production and nutrient availability using approved liming materials or sulfur products.
Implementation and Documentation
Create a detailed plan that outlines your soil fertility management practices:
Document your crop rotation plan, including the use of cover crops and green manures.
Describe your composting process and manure management practices, ensuring compliance with NOP standards.
List all soil amendments and fertilizers you plan to use, including application rates and timing.
Outline your soil testing schedule and how you will use the results to inform management decisions.
Describe your tillage and cultivation practices, focusing on methods that maintain or improve soil condition and minimize erosion.
Explain how you will monitor the effectiveness of your fertility management program, including crop yield and quality assessments.
Remember that organic fertility management is an ongoing process of building soil health and balancing nutrient cycles. Regularly review and update your plan based on soil test results, crop performance, and changing farm conditions. By implementing these practices and carefully documenting your approach, you will develop a robust soil fertility and plant nutrient management plan that meets NOP requirements and supports long-term soil health and crop productivity.
