How does organic farming enhance soil health?

• A. By using synthetic fertilizers only
• B. Through practices that maintain soil biodiversity
• C. By minimizing crop rotation
• D. Through monoculture techniques

Answer: (B)

Organic farming enhances soil health primarily through practices that maintain soil biodiversity. This approach emphasizes the importance of a variety of organisms within the soil ecosystem, including bacteria, fungi, insects, and other microorganisms. These organisms play a crucial role in nutrient cycling, improving soil structure, and promoting water retention.

By fostering a diverse ecosystem, organic farming helps to create a balanced environment that can withstand pests and diseases better than monoculture systems. Additionally, the use of organic matter, such as compost and cover crops, further enriches the soil, adding essential nutrients and promoting a healthy microbial community. These practices lead to increased soil fertility, improved crop yields over time, and enhanced resilience against environmental stresses.

In contrast, methods like relying solely on synthetic fertilizers, minimizing crop rotation, or employing monoculture techniques do not support this vital biodiversity and can lead to soil degradation, reduced fertility, and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases.