Tag: organic-farming

Understanding the Proper Use of Organic and Biological Products in Pest Control

I am asked all the time about organic and biological products. I have over 130 OMRI approved products on a list for controlling pests (weeds, disease and insects) in organic crops. As more growers turn to organic and biological products for pest control, it’s important to understand the nuances of their application. Unlike synthetic chemicals, these products require careful consideration of environmental conditions, mixing procedures, and application timing to be effective. People assume that the Extension Organic Specialist will know every product on the list and how they work – Wrong! I do know about many, but I am also very dependent on growers who use the products telling me about their experiences. I include a lot of that information in the list below.

To view the 5 Excel Sheets or to Download just click on the picture above.

Why Choose Biological Control Products?

Biological control products, while sometimes slower to act than botanical oils or mineral oils, offer several advantages. These products, often derived from beneficial fungi or bacteria, work by stopping insect feeding almost immediately. Over several hours, they gradually degrade the exoskeleton of pests and can also target eggs and larvae, preventing their development.

While oils can provide a quick knockdown effect, they can be harsh on crops, especially in regions like Texas where intense heat and light can exacerbate their impact. This makes biological products generally a safer option for maintaining crop health.

The Importance of Water pH and Quality

One of the most overlooked aspects of using organic and biological sprays is the pH and quality of the water used for mixing. In Texas, our hard water is notorious for high mineral content, which can bind with the active ingredients in sprays, reducing their effectiveness.

For most biological products, it’s crucial to buffer your water to a pH of 5.5-6.5. This range helps to ensure that the organisms remain stable and active in the solution. An exception is Pyganic, a natural pyrethroid, which is highly sensitive to pH. For Pyganic, water buffered to a pH of 4.0-5.0 is ideal for maximizing its efficacy.

Additionally, always use warm water, not cold, when mixing your sprays. Warm water helps the biologicals to remain active and mix more evenly, preventing the clumping that can occur with cold water.

Timing Your Application

Timing is everything when it comes to applying organic and biological products. Unlike synthetic chemicals, these products are sensitive to environmental conditions, particularly UV radiation. Applying them in the evening or at dusk is ideal for several reasons:

  • Reduced UV Exposure: UV radiation can degrade biological products quickly. Applying in the evening allows the product to remain effective longer.1
  • Insect Activity: Many insects are more active when it’s cooler and there’s less light, making it easier to target them effectively.
  • Improved Residual Effect: Spraying in the evening allows the droplets to stay moist longer, thanks to slightly higher humidity. This moisture helps the product adhere better to the plant surfaces and provides residual protection overnight.2

Click on this picture above to read about adjuvants

The Role of Organic Adjuvants in Biological Spray Applications

Organic adjuvants play a critical role in enhancing the performance of biological and organic spray products. By reducing the surface tension of the spray solution, adjuvants help the product spread more evenly across plant surfaces, ensuring better coverage of leaves, stems, and other target areas.

In addition to improving coverage, adjuvants help prevent biological products from drying out too quickly. Many beneficial organisms, such as fungi and bacteria, require time to adhere to the plant surface and begin their activity. Rapid drying can reduce their effectiveness. By maintaining moisture on the surface longer, adjuvants enhance the opportunity for these organisms to establish and do their job effectively.

When selecting an organic adjuvant, ensure it is compatible with the biological product you are using. Always follow label recommendations for application rates and test compatibility in a small jar test if you’re mixing multiple products. Proper use of surfactants can make a significant difference in achieving the desired results from your pest control program.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Many growers who experience issues with organic products often trace the problem back to a few common mistakes:

  1. Improper Mixing: Failing to buffer water or using cold water can lead to reduced efficacy. Always mix according to the product’s instructions and monitor the pH closely.
  2. Environmental Conditions: Applying products during the heat of the day or in bright sunlight can degrade their effectiveness. Always aim for cooler, less bright times of the day.3
  3. Timing: Don’t rush your application. Ensure that you’re applying at the right time to maximize the product’s impact.

Conclusion

By understanding and addressing these factors, you can significantly improve the effectiveness of your organic and biological pest control efforts. Remember, the success of these products often hinges on the details—proper mixing, the right environmental conditions, and timely application.

I encourage you to share your experiences and any questions you might have in the comments below. Together, we can continue to refine our practices and improve the outcomes of organic farming.

  1. The timing of pesticide application can significantly affect the level and persistence of pesticide residues. Evening applications generally lead to higher pesticide residue levels over a longer period compared to morning applications.
    Key Findings
    Effect of Application Timing: Evening applications of pesticides tend to result in higher residue levels that persist longer. This is because the conditions in the evening, such as lower temperatures and reduced sunlight, slow down the degradation of pesticides, allowing residues to remain on plants for extended periods (Norida et al., 2023; Moraes et al., 2021; Makram. et al., 2020).
    Degradation Factors: Sunlight and UV exposure are critical in the degradation of pesticides. Pesticides degrade more effectively when exposed to direct sunlight in the morning compared to the evening, as seen in studies where morning sunlight led to more significant degradation of certain pesticides (Makram. et al., 2020).
    Impact on Efficacy: The effectiveness of pesticides can also vary with the time of application. For instance, some studies have shown that morning applications can be more effective in controlling certain pests due to better environmental conditions for pesticide action (Skuterud et al., 1998; Moraes et al., 2021).
    Environmental Considerations: Applying pesticides in the evening can reduce the immediate impact on non-target organisms, such as bees, as residues have more time to dissipate before these organisms become active again in the morning (Swanson et al., 2023).
    Conclusion
    Evening applications of pesticides generally result in higher and more persistent residue levels compared to morning applications. This is due to slower degradation rates in the absence of sunlight and cooler temperatures. While this can enhance the persistence of pesticide effects, it also raises concerns about prolonged exposure to residues. Therefore, the timing of pesticide application should be carefully considered to balance efficacy and environmental impact.

    References
    Skuterud, R., Bjugstad, N., Tyldum, A., & Tørresen, K. (1998). Effect of herbicides applied at different times of the day. Crop Protection, 17, 41-46. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0261-2194(98)80020-3
    Norida, M., Yahya, S., & Ghazali, F. (2023). Effectiveness of Homemade Repellents and Spray Timing in Controlling Insect Pest in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) and Chinese Mustard (Brassica rapa var. Parachinensis). IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 1208. https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/1208/1/012021
    Swanson, L., Melathopoulos, A., & Bucy, M. (2023). Systematic review of residual toxicity studies of pesticides to bees and comparison to language on pesticide labels using data from studies and the Environmental Protection Agency. bioRxiv. https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.06.05.543089
    Moraes, H., Ferreira, L., De Souza, W., Faria, R., De Freitas, M., & Cecon, P. (2021). Spray volume, dose and time of day of glyphosate application in the control of Urochloa brizantha. Bioagro. https://doi.org/10.51372/bioagro333.1
    Makram., S., Ibrahim, H., & Mohammed., M. (2020). EFFECT OF DIRECT SUNLIGHT AND UV-RAYS ON DEGRADATION OF BUPIRIMATE, PENCONAZOLE AND PROFENOFOS. **. https://doi.org/10.21608/fjard.2020.189675 ↩︎
  2. Ibid ↩︎
  3. Ibid ↩︎

Exploring Organic Research: Advancing Texas Organic Production

Photo: The Organic Center: Organic Research Highlights

Organic agriculture continues to expand in Texas as both farmers and consumers recognize the benefits of sustainable and ecologically sound farming practices1. At the forefront of this growth are research initiatives that tackle challenges and create opportunities for organic producers. In Texas, we are working on several innovative organic research projects that are helping to pave the way for a more resilient, profitable, and sustainable organic agriculture industry. These projects not only foster organic agriculture growth but also contribute to improving farmer economics, boosting crop and livestock productivity, and enhancing the health of plants, animals, and people. I feel privileged to work on these projects with outstanding researchers and extension collaborators who share a passion for organic agriculture as I do, making this work both impactful and deeply rewarding.

Ongoing Research Projects in Texas Organic Agriculture

  1. Research, Development, and Evaluation of Diesel Nut Oil – Crop Feedstocks Developing alternative crop feedstocks for diesel nut oil production that align with organic farming systems, offering economic and energy solutions.
  2. Evaluating the Effectiveness of Humic Acid Substance (MFG 150) on Milk Production Investigating how humic acid can naturally enhance milk production, providing a sustainable approach to improving organic dairy productivity.
  3. Evaluating Mastitis Treatment Without Antibiotics Utilizing AHV Exploring alternative methods to treat mastitis in livestock, supporting animal health while maintaining organic standards.
  4. Producing Resilient Organic Transplants Under Controlled Environments Examining methods for producing stronger organic transplants to ensure better crop establishment and resilience in challenging conditions.
  5. Hi-A Corn and Management Practices for Nutritional Food and Feed Breeding high-anthocyanin corn varieties and developing practices to maximize their nutritional value for both human consumption and animal feed.
  6. Climate-Smart Organic Sorghum Partnership for Grain and Silage Production Partnering with producers to grow climate-resilient organic sorghum for grain and silage, contributing to sustainable feed and food systems.
  7. Fostering Sustainable Organic Cotton Production in the U.S. Through Research and Outreach Enhancing organic cotton production through research and extension efforts that address challenges like pest management, soil health, and market development.
  8. Boosting Organic Leafy Green Production Using Summer-Adapted Cover Crops in Texas Leveraging cover crops to improve soil health and create conditions for robust organic leafy green production in warmer climates.
  9. Field Protocol for “Huitlacoche Delicacy: Turning the Lost Corn Crop into a High-Value Delicacy Vegetable” Creating a framework for growing and marketing huitlacoche (corn smut), turning a common crop affliction into a gourmet organic product.
  10. Increasing Consumer Acceptance and Farmer Profitability by Breeding More Nutritious Cowpeas Breeding and promoting cowpeas with higher nutritional value, meeting consumer demands while improving profitability for organic farmers.
  11. Advancing Discovery to Market – Organic Pre-emerge Weed Control Technology Developing organic preemergence weed control solutions to reduce reliance on tillage and labor-intensive practices, improving efficiency in organic farming systems.

What’s Next for 2025

We already have some proposals in the pipeline for submission including a few Texas Department of Agriculture Specialty Crop Block Grants, at least 2 new USDA Organic Research and Extension Initiative grants and several Southern SARE grants we are waiting on approval and a few more to apply for in May. There are always new things we need to study, new concepts to explore and always lots of questions from farmers that need an answer. Add to this list issues with climate extremes, varieties that meet organic needs, biostimulant research – the list is endless!

Why Organic Research Matters

Organic research is vital for driving innovation and addressing the unique challenges faced by organic producers. The projects mentioned above exemplify how targeted research can:

  • Support Agricultural Growth: By developing resilient crop varieties2, enhancing pest control methods3, and improving soil health4, organic research ensures consistent production and increased yields.
  • Improve Farmer Economics: Projects focused on reducing input costs, increasing marketable yields, and creating value-added opportunities (like huitlacoche) directly impact farmer profitability5.

References

  1. Organic Trade Association. Consumer Perception of USDA Organic and Competing Label Claims. Euromonitor International, April 2024. ↩︎
  2. “Organic Farming and Soil Health: A Review.”
    The Organic Center. Available at: https://www.organic-center.org/sites/default/files/project/2020/03/soil-health-review_shadetully.pdf ↩︎
  3. “Integrated Pest Management Strategies in Organic Farming.”
    Bulletin of the National Research Centre, Springer Open. Available at: https://bnrc.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s42269-024-01226-x ↩︎
  4. “Organic Farming and Soil Health: A Review.”
    The Organic Center. Available at: https://www.organic-center.org/sites/default/files/project/2020/03/soil-health-review_shadetully.pdf ↩︎
  5. “The Economics of Integrated Organic Farming: Cost-Benefit Analysis.”
    Husfarm. Available at: https://husfarm.com/article/the-economics-of-integrated-organic-farming-cost-benefit-analysis ↩︎

Some New Organic Projects and Products

Texas A&M Researchers Develop Innovative Organic Herbicide with $100,000 Grant

Texas A&M University’s Advancing Discovery to Market (ADM) grant program has awarded a $100,000 grant to further develop a groundbreaking organic pre-emergent herbicide technology. This innovative project, led by Dr. Lawrence Griffing from the Biology Department, aims to create a natural, non-toxic herbicide that effectively controls weeds without harming crops or the environment

The proposed herbicide works by utilizing plant sterols to inhibit weed growth through a novel mechanism of action. Early tests show promising results, with the potential to reduce weed biomass by more than 90% in month-old plantings of both broadleaf and grass weeds

What sets this herbicide apart is its organic nature and potential cost-effectiveness, with estimates suggesting it could provide weed control at 1/3 to 1/100 of the existing cost for broad-spectrum weed management

This ADM grant will support crucial field testing and formulation development, bringing the technology closer to market readiness. The project team is collaborating with Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension to conduct comprehensive field trials across multiple crops and soil types

This research not only advances organic farming practices but also demonstrates the commitment of myself and other Extension specialists and researchers to developing practical, sustainable solutions for organic producers.

New Organic Insecticide with a Twist!

Entrapment developed by Attune Agriculture is an innovative organic insecticide that works by altering the physical properties of water to create an effective trap for various pests. This product is particularly promising for use in grape vineyards to control leafhoppers, an insect that can caused lots of headaches for Texas growers. Entrapment’s unique mode of action involves changing the surface tension of water droplets, allowing them to adhere to leaf surfaces and trap insects upon contact.

“Entrapment insecticide provides a high level of control of many of the most important insect and mite pests in agriculture that can be applied up until harvest, a much-needed tool for growers,” says Greg Andon, CEO of Attune Agriculture. “We believe its unique combination of physical mode of action, efficacy within a specific pest size range, and lack of phytotoxicity make Entrapment one of the most consequential new actives to be introduced in many years.”

Entrapment’s unique spectrum of activity provides effective control of aphids, thrips, psyllids, whiteflies, scales, leafhoppers, mites, plant bugs, flea hoppers, chinch bugs and small caterpillars. The EPA registered label includes most crops: fruit, nut, vegetable, row crop, greenhouse, and turf & ornamental.

One of the key advantages of Entrapment is its versatility across different crop types. While it shows promise for use in vineyards, there is also potential for its application in row crops, which could provide a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional pesticides. 

It’s important to note that while Entrapment offers an exciting new tool for organic pest management, research on its effectiveness in various agricultural settings is still being conducted. As with any new product, further studies and field trials will be necessary to fully understand its potential benefits in different crops and pest species. Farmers are encouraged to conduct their own trials and share results (please!) to build a better understanding of any new organic product’s capabilities in agricultural fields.

New Generic Version of Popular Organic Insecticide Now Available!

Great news for organic farmers battling insect pests! Spinosad, the active ingredient in Corteva Agriscience’s Entrust Naturalyte Insecticide, is now available as a generic product. This OMRI-approved organic insecticide has long been a go-to solution for controlling:

  • Worms and caterpillars
  • Thrips
  • Leafminers
  • Fire ants
Cost-Effective Alternative

Previously, the high cost of Spinosad made it challenging to use on commodity crops and even some vegetable and grape productions. However, with the expiration of the patent, a more affordable generic version has entered the market.

Introducing Estero by Atticus

Atticus is now distributing “Estero,” a generic Spinosad product. Key points to note:

  • Estero has the same formulation as Entrust
  • It may still be manufactured by Corteva Agriscience
  • The efficacy and quality remain unchanged
Availability and Ordering

Atticus works with major agricultural retailers to distribute Estero. However, farmers may need to specifically request the product to ensure local availability.

Texas Contact Information

For Texas farmers interested in Estero, contact:

Audie Wolf
Texas Sales Representative for Atticus
Phone: 806-567-0324
Location: Texas Panhandle

This generic alternative offers organic farmers a chance to effectively manage pests while potentially reducing input costs.

The Squeeze on Organic: Comparing Profitability Trends in U.S. Grain Markets

Recent reports indicate a significant downturn in the U.S. organic grain market, with profitability for organic corn, soybean, and wheat farmers reaching record lows. For the 2023-24 marketing year, the combined net returns for these three crops fell to just $42 per acre. The outlook for 2024-25 is even more concerning, with potential negative returns ranging from -$213 to -$277 per acre if current price and cost trends persist. This decline is primarily attributed to plummeting organic commodity prices, with organic soy, corn, and wheat prices down 38-42% from their recent peaks.

The profitability squeeze is particularly severe for organic farmers compared to their conventional counterparts. While both sectors face rising production costs and increased global competition, organic producers are experiencing a “double whammy” of higher costs and lower prices relative to pre-2021 baselines. Conventional grain prices, though down from recent highs, still exceed cost increases when compared to the 2016-2021 period. In contrast, organic corn prices have fallen below historic baselines while production costs have increased. This trend threatens the traditionally higher net returns of organic corn and soybean farming, which have outperformed conventional returns by $12 to $485 per acre over the past eight years.

The declining profitability of organic grain farming raises concerns about farmer retention and the future of organic agriculture in the U.S. It’s estimated that there has been a 5% decrease in the number of organic farmers in 2024 compared to the previous year. Some farmers are considering switching to more profitable organic crops or even reverting to conventional farming. This situation poses a significant challenge to the organic industry and could potentially impact the environmental benefits associated with organic farming practices, including improved water quality and soil health.

Sources include:

Argus Media. “Shrinking profitability of organic farming.” Argus AgriMarkets Organic and Non-GMO service, November 2024.

Grow Well Consulting. “Is the profitability plunge in U.S. organic actually worse than corrections happening in conventional?” October 28, 2024.

Poll Says: Dicamba Drift Continues to Impact Organic Crops in West Texas

Soybeans damaged by dicamba drift. Genetic Literacy Project

Overview of Dicamba Drift Issue in 2024

Dicamba, a commonly used herbicide in conventional farming, has long been a point of contention, particularly in regions where organic crops are grown alongside conventional fields. In 2024, the persistence of dicamba drift has become increasingly problematic for organic farmers in West Texas, affecting a range of sensitive crops, particularly cotton and peanuts.

To understand the scale of this issue, I recently conducted a poll targeting 204 organic farmers from Seminole to areas just north of Lubbock. The poll, sent out by email, specifically asked if they had observed dicamba drift on their sensitive crops this year. With a response rate of 27.5% (56 responses), the results are indicative of a widespread concern.

Poll Results: Dicamba Drift on Sensitive Crops

In this poll, farmers were asked a straightforward question: “Have you seen dicamba drift on sensitive crops in 2024?” The results revealed the following breakdown:

  • 50% reported observing dicamba drift on their crops.
  • 44% stated they had not observed drift.
  • 5% mentioned “maybe” they had observed some drift damage.

The responses reflect a troubling level of dicamba exposure, with half of the respondents directly witnessing the impact of drift. While dicamba is designed to target specific weeds, the herbicide’s tendency to volatilize and drift into neighboring fields has made it difficult for organic farmers to avoid its effects, especially in the South Plains.

Impact on Crop Yields

Several farmers shared the tangible impacts dicamba drift has had on their yields. One farmer, who has been practicing organic farming for over three decades, described this year as the “worst dicamba drift in years.” He noted that his soybean yield was cut in half, with probable yield reductions in cotton as well. This problem was bad enough that his comments to me questioned whether it was worth it to keep farming!

The Broader Implications for Organic Farming

The prevalence of dicamba drift has significant ramifications for organic producers in Texas. Yield reductions not only threaten the economic viability of these farmers but also jeopardize their certification status, as organic crops must remain free of prohibited substances. Dicamba drift challenges their ability to meet these requirements, complicating the already demanding task of managing organic systems in a predominantly conventional farming region.

This is just for Awareness

The findings from this poll underscore the need for better management practices to prevent dicamba drift. Organic farmers have invested years into building sustainable systems that meet organic standards, yet their efforts can be undermined by the unintended consequences of a herbicide application on a nearby conventional farm.

Moving forward, it is essential to foster a dialogue between organic and conventional farmers, to find solutions that protect organic crops from unintended herbicide exposure. Additionally, increased awareness and education about the volatility of dicamba and its potential effects on neighboring fields could be critical steps in mitigating drift.

With dicamba products currently off the market, there is growing concern about whether they will be approved for use again in future years. The uncertainty surrounding future approvals adds an additional layer of stress for organic farmers, who are already grappling with the fallout of dicamba drift. Better and more effective safeguards are crucial if dicamba is to return, to ensure that organic farming can continue to thrive without fear of “chemical trespass” on neighboring farms.

What’s Next – FieldWatch offers help

In response to these ongoing challenges posed by any pesticide drift or accidental pesticide application, the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) is collaborating with FieldWatch to implement a mapping registry in 2025. This program aims to enhance communication between specialty crop producers, beekeepers, and pesticide applicators, thereby mitigating the risks associated with pesticide drift.

FieldWatch is a non-profit organization that offers free, voluntary mapping tools designed to promote awareness of sensitive sites. By registering their fields, vineyards, orchards and apiaries, producers and beekeepers can inform applicators of locations that require caution during pesticide application. This proactive approach fosters cooperation and helps protect vulnerable crops from unintended exposure.

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will oversee the data management for FieldWatch in Texas, with your Extension Organic Specialist (myself!), serving as the data manager. This collaboration ensures that the registry is maintained with accurate and up-to-date information, facilitating effective communication among all stakeholders.

The introduction of FieldWatch in Texas is a significant step toward protecting organic and specialty crops from pesticide drift. By participating in this registry, farmers can contribute to better use and application of pesticides, ultimately supporting the sustainability of all agriculture in the region.

How Organic Farming Practices Revive Soil Health and Microbial Diversity: Evidence from DNA Studies

Picture – RhizeBio.com (Decoding Nutrient Availability with DNA Soil Testing for Agriculture)

In recent years, scientific advances in DNA sequencing have allowed us to delve deeper into the hidden world of soil microbiomes—complex ecosystems of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that play a crucial role in soil health. For certified organic farms, where soil vitality is central to crop productivity, DNA testing has become a powerful tool to track the rejuvenation of soil microbial life. Here are several case studies and research examples showing how organic practices can bring “dead” or degraded soils back to life, backed by peer-reviewed studies and long-term trials.

1. Rodale Institute’s Farming Systems Trial (FST)

The Rodale Institute’s Farming Systems Trial (FST) in Pennsylvania, one of the longest-running studies of its kind, has provided compelling evidence on how organic practices restore microbial life in soils. Comparing conventional and organic farming systems, the trial found that organic soils had higher microbial diversity and biomass, which supported better nutrient cycling, drought resilience, and overall soil health. This microbial community improvement was observed within just a few years of organic management.

  • Supporting Study: Rodale Institute. (2021). Rodale Institute Farming Systems Trial: 40-Year Report. Retrieved from: https://rodaleinstitute.org/science/farming-systems-trial/
  • Seufert, V., Ramankutty, N., & Foley, J. A. (2012). Comparing the yields of organic and conventional agriculture. Nature, 485(7397), 229-232. doi:10.1038/nature11069

2. University of California, Davis – Russell Ranch Sustainable Agriculture Facility

At the Russell Ranch Sustainable Agriculture Facility, part of UC Davis, researchers compared organic and conventional farming systems to understand their impact on soil health. DNA sequencing revealed that organic plots contained a significantly higher abundance of beneficial microbes, such as Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria, which are essential for decomposing organic matter and supplying nutrients to plants. Improvements in microbial diversity were observed within three years, showing how quickly organic management can enhance soil life.

  • Supporting Study: Bowles, T. M., Acosta-Martínez, V., Calderón, F., & Jackson, L. E. (2014). Soil enzyme activities, microbial communities, and carbon and nitrogen availability in organic agroecosystems across an intensively managed agricultural landscape. Soil Biology and Biochemistry, 68, 252-262. doi:10.1016/j.soilbio.2013.10.004
  • University of California, Davis. Russell Ranch Sustainable Agriculture Facility. Retrieved from: https://russellranch.ucdavis.edu

3. USDA-ARS Study on Organic Transition in Salinas Valley, California

In California’s Salinas Valley, a USDA-ARS study focused on soil health during the transition from conventional to organic practices. DNA analysis was used to track microbial changes over time, showing that organic practices led to increased populations of beneficial organisms like Pseudomonas (known for disease suppression) and mycorrhizal fungi (which assist in nutrient uptake). Even heavily degraded fields showed signs of microbial recovery within three to five years under organic management.

The graph below illustrates how microbial diversity increased over several years under organic management, similar to what was observed in the USDA-ARS study in the Salinas Valley.

  • Supporting Study: Schmidt, J. E., Gaudin, A. C. M., & Scow, K. M. (2018). Cover cropping and no-till increase diversity and symbiotrophratios of soil fungal communities. Soil Biology and Biochemistry, 129, 99-109. doi:10.1016/j.soilbio.2018.10.010
  • USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS). Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative (OREI). Retrieved from: https://www.ars.usda.gov

4. The DOK Trial in Switzerland (FiBL – Research Institute of Organic Agriculture)

The DOK trial in Switzerland, a long-term study by the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), compares biodynamic, organic, and conventional systems. DNA sequencing and microbial analysis have shown that the organic and biodynamic plots consistently feature higher microbial diversity and functionality. Within the first few years, these systems already showed greater resilience and microbial activity compared to conventional plots, highlighting the role of organic practices in fostering a healthy, living soil ecosystem.

  • Supporting Study: Mäder, P., Fließbach, A., Dubois, D., Gunst, L., Fried, P., & Niggli, U. (2002). Soil fertility and biodiversity in organic farming. Science, 296(5573), 1694-1697. doi:10.1126/science.1071148
  • FiBL – Research Institute of Organic Agriculture. DOK Trial: Long-Term Farming Systems Comparison in Switzerland. Retrieved from: https://www.fibl.org

5. Organic Almond and Grape Vineyards in California

In California, several almond and grape vineyards that transitioned to organic practices have used DNA analysis to monitor soil microbial changes. Within a few years, they reported a rise in beneficial mycorrhizal fungi and reduced pathogen levels, signaling a healthier, more resilient soil system. DNA sequencing tracked these positive shifts, confirming that organic management can replace harmful microbes with beneficial ones in soil over time.

  • Supporting Study: Steenwerth, K. L., & Belina, K. M. (2008). Cover crops enhance soil organic matter, carbon dynamics and microbiological function in a vineyard agroecosystem. Applied Soil Ecology, 40(2), 359-369. doi:10.1016/j.apsoil.2008.06.006
  • Hannula, S. E., & van Veen, J. A. (2016). The role of AM fungi in organic agriculture. Applied Soil Ecology, 96, 64-72. doi:10.1016/j.apsoil.2015.05.011

The Role of DNA Analysis in Understanding Soil Revival

DNA analysis has been a game-changer in soil science, allowing researchers to observe the specific microbial changes that occur when fields transition from conventional to organic management. By tracking shifts in microbial diversity and function, DNA testing provides clear, measurable evidence of how organic practices promote a healthy, balanced soil microbiome.

These studies illustrate that soil health restoration is achievable within a relatively short time under organic practices. While soils subjected to long-term conventional management may initially appear “dead” or lacking in microbial diversity, the examples above demonstrate that organic farming can foster microbial resilience and diversity, creating a foundation for sustainable, productive agriculture.

Organic farming practices have been shown to significantly improve soil health and microbial diversity compared to conventional farming methods. This article on recent DNA studies provides compelling evidence for the benefits of organic practices on soil ecosystems (eOrganic, 2023).

Increased Microbial Diversity and Abundance

Organic farming leads to greater microbial diversity and abundance in soils. Research in the Netherlands found that organically managed soils had higher numbers and more diverse populations of beneficial soil organisms compared to conventionally managed soils (Hartmann et al., 2015). Similar results were observed in banana plantation soils in Taiwan, with organic soils showing greater microbial diversity (Lehman et al., 2015). This increased microbial diversity is crucial for soil health, as it improves nutrient cycling, water retention, and disease suppression.

Enhanced Bacterial Communities

DNA studies reveal specific changes in soil bacterial communities under organic management. Organic systems show higher abundance of beneficial bacterial phyla like Acidobacteria, Firmicutes, Nitrospirae, and Rokubacteria (Hartmann et al., 2015). These bacterial groups correlate with improved soil biochemical properties and increased crop yields in organic systems (Lehman et al., 2015).

Improved Fungal Associations

Organic practices foster beneficial fungal relationships in the soil. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) colonization is higher in organic soils (Hannula & van Veen, 2016). AMF extend plant root systems, improving water and nutrient uptake, especially in challenging conditions like drought or high soil salinity.

Soil Organic Matter and Carbon Sequestration

Organic farming significantly increases soil organic matter content. The National Soil Project found organic soils averaged 8.33% organic matter content versus 7.37% in conventional soils (National Soil Project). Organic soils showed higher levels of sequestered carbon (4.1% vs 2.85%) and a greater percentage of organic matter in stable forms (57.3% vs 45%). This increased organic matter improves soil structure, water retention, and carbon sequestration potential.

Nitrogen Fixation and Nutrient Cycling

Organic practices enhance natural nutrient cycling processes. Research suggests organic soybean plants may develop more extensive fine root systems and nitrogen-fixing nodules compared to conventional crops (Lehman et al., 2015). The diverse microbial communities in organic soils contribute to more efficient nutrient cycling and availability for plants (Hartmann et al., 2015).

Soil Enzyme Activity

Organic management boosts soil enzymatic activity. Higher levels of alkaline phosphatase and β-glucosidase activity are observed in organic systems (Bowles et al., 2014). These enzymes play crucial roles in organic matter decomposition and nutrient release.

In conclusion, DNA studies provide strong evidence that organic farming practices revitalize soil health by fostering diverse and abundant microbial communities, improving soil structure, enhancing nutrient cycling, and increasing carbon sequestration. These benefits create a more resilient and sustainable agricultural ecosystem.

Sources for Further Reading:

Hartmann, M., Frey, B., Mayer, J., Mäder, P., & Widmer, F. (2015). Distinct soil microbial diversity under long-term organic and conventional farming. The ISME Journal, 9(5), 1177-1194. doi:10.1038/ismej.2014.210

Lehman, R. M., Cambardella, C. A., Stott, D. E., Acosta-Martínez, V., Manter, D. K., Buyer, J. S., … & Halvorson, J. J. (2015). Understanding and enhancing soil biological health: The solution for reversing soil degradation. Sustainability, 7(1), 988-1027. doi:10.3390/su7010988

These resources provide additional insights into how soil biology supports agriculture and the role of organic practices in enhancing microbial diversity.