Which practice is commonly used to improve soil organic matter?

Applying compost or mulch is a widely recognized practice for improving soil organic matter. Compost, which is composed of decomposed organic materials, enriches the soil by adding nutrients and enhancing its structure, water retention, and microbial activity. This addition not only increases the organic content of the soil but also contributes to a balanced ecosystem that supports plant growth.

Mulch, whether organic or inorganic, also plays a crucial role in maintaining soil moisture, suppressing weeds, and slowly breaking down to enrich the soil over time. By incorporating organic materials into the soil ecosystem, both compost and mulch help build soil health, increase the soil's ability to retain nutrients, and support beneficial soil organisms that contribute to overall soil fertility.

While rotating crops and planting cover crops can also improve soil structure and fertility, the direct addition of compost or mulch is specifically aimed at enhancing organic matter content in the soil. Using chemical fertilizers, on the other hand, typically does not improve organic matter; instead, it can lead to a reliance on synthetic nutrients without addressing the soil's organic component.