Eric compared five methods of preparing fallow land for vegetable production with respect to soil regeneration and cost to implement.

In a Nutshell

• Cover crops with micronutrient amendments increased active carbon, a sensitive indicator of soil health and soil regeneration potential.
• Micronutrient amendment alone did not increase active carbon; and Eric saw no added benefit with respect to soil health of adding chicken manure or woody compost with cover crops.
• Balancing cost and soil health benefits, Eric will focus on micronutrient application and full season cover crops in areas that require regeneration.