Soil organic matter matters

Soil organic matter, which is the organic component of soil, has numerous benefits for agricultural production. Healthy soils with stable levels of soil organic matter have a better soil functionality and are better equipped to prevent and fight soil-borne diseases. Investing in soil organic matter can lead to yield-related and financial benefits for farmers in the long run.

A new EIP-AGRI brochure highlights methods to improve soil organic matter content on the farm. It offers solutions for common soil challenges – which are particularly critical in Mediterranean regions – and useful decision support tools that can help farmers decide which strategy is best for their soils. Reading the brochure, you will find out some suggested topics for potential Operational Group projects.

You will also hear from two Mediterranean farmers talking about their experiences. Carola Konsten, Italian farmer, mixes her on-farm compost with manure collected from other farms in her village. Carola says “Soil organic matter management is essential for the growth and health of our plants.” Collecting manure from other farms not only increases the nutrients in her compost but it “also brings us in close contact with other farmers in our community, allowing us to help each other and exchange experiences.”

Read and download the brochure