by Matteo Cavallito<\/p>\n
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The analysis of microbial communities allows to evaluate and measure soil health by overcoming methodological problems and offering practical solutions as an alternative to the use of chemical inputs, a research<\/a> conducted by scientists from the U.S. Department of Agriculture<\/strong> and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada<\/a> has claimed. “Understanding the management practices that lead to healthier soils will allow farmers to grow the same crops while reducing costly fertilizers<\/strong>, pesticides and herbicides and protecting the environment,” said<\/a> Lori Phillips, a researcher at the same government agency based in Harrow, Ontario. Conducted over nearly 20 years, the survey has also uncovered which plants can be most effective in preserving soil balance.<\/p>\n