Where it is realized
Summary description of agroecological practice
The first project involves cultivating cover crops and incorporating them into the soil before maize cropping, utilizing two tillage methods: no-till and conventional tillage in the spring. The aim is to evaluate the long-term effects of cover cropping and tillage methods on crop yield and soil health over a 5-year period.
The other project focuses on utilizing biochar and zeolite during the establishment of a new olive grove. The objective is to monitor the effects of these soil amendments on olive tree growth, yield, and soil health over an extended period.
Type of agroecological practice
Cover cropping
Minimum tillage
Soil improvement
Implementing the practice
For the cultivation of cover crops and their incorporation into the soil, we begin by selecting suitable cover crop species, planning the timing of cover crop planting, and implementing no-till and conventional tillage methods accordingly. This involves establishing experimental plots, sowing cover crops, and managing tillage practices. Regular monitoring and data collection will be conducted to assess crop yield and soil health over the 5-year period.
For the use of biochar and zeolite in establishing a new olive grove, we begin by selecting appropriate application rates of biochar and zeolite, incorporating them into the soil during olive tree planting, and establishing monitoring protocols for tree growth, yield, and soil health. This will involve conducting field trials, applying soil amendments, and implementing long-term monitoring to evaluate their effects on olive tree performance and soil health.
Why you use and what you expect from this practice?
For the cultivation of cover crops and incorporation into the soil, we expect the practice to improve soil health, enhance water retention, reduce erosion, suppress weeds, and ultimately increase crop yield over the long term.
For the use of biochar and zeolite in establishing a new olive grove, we expect the practice to improve soil structure, enhance nutrient retention, increase water holding capacity, promote root growth, improve tree vigor, and ultimately increase olive tree yield and quality over the long term.