b'RETAIL STRATEGYResearch on hydroponics, for example, has investigated theOne notable approach involves applying soil health prin-possibility of growing plants without soil entirely. Results haveciples, such as minimizing soil disturbance, promoting plant been mixed at best. diversity, and maintaining continuous ground cover. Hydroponic growth, while possible, lacks the rich micro- She emphasizes the transformation her team has observed in bial diversity and nutrient access that soil-based cultivation pro- the soil when they implement these principles, even for a short vides, making the latter a more natural and beneficial conditionperiod. She illustrates this with a specific example from 2020. for plant growth, White says. The change in soil quality over just two months and 10 days is The discourse on soil health has evolved considerably overremarkable.the past 40 years, Black says. That discourse is creating moreThis process of soil regeneration and management is vital awareness of soil health. for understanding the changes in soil health. To facilitate this, Back in the 1980s, the focus was primarily on traditionalits important for producers and stakeholders to engage in com-farming practices like summer fallowing. However, today, wereprehensive soil health management and monitoring, Zavala witnessing the emergence of new technologies, products, andsays. practices designed to enhance soil health, Black says. Innovations such as cover crops and advanced soil testing techniques are being embraced to address the contemporary challenges faced by Canadian farmers.These innovations are bolstered by new science taking a closer look at soil based on its functionality.Most agricultural practices have been rooted in a chemical-centric approach, ignoring the broader, holistic system that encompasses the chemical, physical, and biological aspects ofIn the accompanying images, you can see a side-by-side comparison of soil, Zavala says. To rejuvenate our soil, we must perceive it assoil health, with one area undergoing soil health principles and the other a living system and redirect our focus towards comprehensiveleft untouched. The difference is striking, particularly in the enriched research and practices that consider the soil.soils microbial activity. Photos: Yamily ZavalaTo gain a better understanding of soil constraints, her team at the Chinook Applied Research Association near Oyen, Alta.,This involves benchmarking the soil, implementing manage-initiated a program that provides them with a fresh perspec- ment changes, and continuously monitoring the results. tive on soil. This approach incorporates both the biological andThis monitoring approach extends to seed disease as well, physical aspects of soil.Blois adds.With this perspective in mind, we can identify the signifi- In the context of seed diseases, there are specific indicators cant constraints we face in the soil health realm, Zavala says.that seed growers and farmers should closely monitor to prevent Regardless of the protocols or laboratory methods we use toseed-related diseases. Preventive measures are crucial, just as in evaluate soil health conditions, its crucial that we adopt indica- human health. Seed-borne diseases often manifest as seedling tors that offer insights into the soils overall health.blight and root rots, which result from the presence of patho-gens within the seeds, Blois says. When it comes to soil, weve been doing it wrong for years Moisture levels play a pivotal role in disease severity, as One of the key constraints Zavalas team encountered was soilmany of these pathogens thrive in wet conditions. Planting in compaction, impacting the physical components, as well asexcessively wet soils or experiencing prolonged wet conditions issues related to aggregation and stability. Understanding thesein the growing season can exacerbate seedling blight and root constraints is vital because it helps them determine the mostrot issues. Ensuring good soil drainage is essential to mitigate appropriate approaches to address soil health shortcomings. these problems. Over the past few years, weve conducted extensive soil evaluations, focusing on physical, biological, and chemical con-straints, Zavala says.This information is pivotal in directing our efforts towards addressing these issues. Our goal is to work towards soil healing and restoration.Watch our full-length webinar on this topic at germination.ca/soil-health-webinarSUPPORTED BY: ENDORSED BY:34GERMINATION.CAJANUARY 2024'