Fertility

Having the right nutrients available in the right amounts at the right time is critical to plant productivity. Being able to provide plants with nutrients in a manner that does not deplete the soil but actually builds soil health is not only possible, but necessary in order to be sustainable.

Finding cost-effective ways to do this is important for farm profitability. Making sure producers do not cause downstream pollution in the form of nutrient runoff is also part of the balancing act. Composts, manures, cover cropping, biochar, and other nutrient inputs can all be a part of regenerative nutrient management. The practical ATTRA resources in this section can help crop and livestock farmers, whether organic or conventional, manage soil fertility sustainably.