Which practice can enhance soil health and reduce erosion?

The practice that enhances soil health and reduces erosion is crop rotation with cover crops. This method not only diversifies the types of crops grown in a specific area but also introduces cover crops, which are planted during off-season periods to protect and enrich the soil.

Cover crops, such as clover or rye, play a significant role in preventing soil erosion by providing ground cover, thereby reducing the impact of rain on bare soil. They also help improve soil structure, increase organic matter, promote microbial activity, and improve water retention. Additionally, crop rotation can disrupt pest and disease cycles and improves nutrient cycling, as different plants can have varied nutrient requirements and contributions to the soil.

In contrast, continuous cropping without cover does not provide the protective benefits that cover crops offer, while heavy application of chemical fertilizers can lead to nutrient runoff and potential soil degradation. Mono-cropping may deplete the soil of specific nutrients and increase vulnerability to pests and diseases, making it less effective for maintaining soil health and preventing erosion. Thus, crop rotation with cover crops stands out as an effective strategy for enhancing soil health and minimizing erosion.