Sustainable Practices for Vegetable Production in the South
Dr. Mary Peet, NCSU
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Soil Management: Introduction

Any definition of sustainable agriculture includes a commitment to proper soil management. In some cases, conventional, high analysis fertilizers may be the most efficient tool to use, and state extension publications and agents are good sources of information on fertilizers.

The soil management strategies described below are mainly 'alternative' materials and practices about which information is less readily available. Growers planning to seek organic certification should note that the materials and practices discussed in this book are not necessarily permitted by all certification programs. The specific requirements of each state's certification program should be studied before using any alternative practice.

Addresses for state certification programs in the southern states are listed in Appendix 5. The reader should also bear in mind that information on 'alternative' materials and practices is often site-specific and successful use of these strategies depends on integration of all aspects of farm management into a total 'systems' approach.

Good soil condition (tilth) and adequate fertility are basic to sustainable and organic agriculture. An ideal soil should:

  1. be well drained,
  2. have a deep rooting zone,
  3. be easily penetrated by air, water, and roots,
  4. have a good water-holding capacity,
  5. have a balanced nutrient supply, and
  6. resist erosion.

Soil management can improve these characteristics for some, but not all, soils. For example, on sloping or other highly erodible soils, growers should also consider the reduced tillage practices described in Conservation Tillage.

One aim of a good soil management program is to compensate for loss of nutrients through erosion, leaching and immobilization, and harvested products. High analysis fertilizers compensate for these losses by releasing nutrients to the soil relatively quickly and completely.

In contrast, compensating for these losses with cover crops, mineral powders, and composts, which release nutrients more slowly, requires careful planning and consideration of long-term goals such as improving the structure and biological activity of the soil. Benefits of improved soil accumulate gradually and may become most apparent during dry years.

The following sections present ways in which alternative materials can be used to improve soil structure, fertility, and biological activity.

  • Managing Soil Physical Characteristics
  • Fertility Management
  • Types of Organic Matter Additions
  • Management of Soil Biological Characteristics

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    Last Modified: September 27, 2006 2:37 PM