Agronomy 365’s Post

The Rhizosphere is the soil affected by the presence of the roots of growing plants. 🌱 The rhizosphere is the thin layer of soil directly influenced by growing plant roots. Although it makes up only about 3% of the total soil volume, the processes happening within the rhizosphere are far more significant than those in the bulk soil, both in quality and quantity. In the graphic, you’ll see how plants, soils, and microorganisms interact within the rhizosphere – a delicate yet powerful cycle where each influences the other. ♻️ So, how can we positively manipulate the rhizosphere? One key strategy is increasing WEOC (water extractable organic carbon). Here’s how: 1️⃣ Boost photosynthetic activity in plants, which enhances root exudation. 2️⃣ Those root exudates feed soil microbes, which produce enzymes that free up nutrients for plant uptake. Once we’ve created more WEOC with a photosynthetically efficient plant, we don’t want to waste it. To sustain and maximize the benefits of WEOC, we must manage farming practices such as tillage, crop rotations, pesticide use, and fertilizer applications. Over-applying nitrogen, for example, can quickly deplete WEOC and undo this delicate balance. 👉 All roads in agronomy lead back to photosynthesis. It’s just a matter of if we recognize it or not. Tools like Indicator Max and BaselineRx help us measure and monitor WEOC, ensuring your plants have the nutrients they need without waste. Listen in to Episodes 8 and 11 of Crop Cast Pod to dive deeper into WEOC and how to increase photosynthetic efficiency. 💡Blake Hadley, adapted from the book "The Rhizosphere" #Agronomy365 #BaselineRx #SmartFarming #AgTech #AgInnovation #PrecisionAgriculture #sustainablefarming #FarmManagementSoftware #DataDrivenAg #AgriTech #Agronomy #farmprofitability

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