In two studies, researchers at the University of Turku have found that carbon sequestration and plant resilience as well as forage pasture yield can be increased through key adjustments in agricultural management. The results provide a roadmap for reducing pesticide loads in soils and the first steps towards increasing climate change mitigation while improving crop yield in grasslands.
Soil properties are an essential driver of plant quality, including resilience against climatic extremes and resistance against insect pests and pathogens.
The increasing food demand of the rising global population together with technological advancement and novel synthetic agrochemicals have resulted in agricultural intensification with the goal to maximise crop production.
Read more at: University of Turku
Common meadow after harvest at the end of June. The meadow provides an example of intensive mowing close to the ground. (Photo Credit: Benjamin Fuchs)