Which method can improve soil fertility over time?

Employing crop rotation and cover crops is an effective method for improving soil fertility over time. This practice enhances the nutrient content of the soil and promotes a diverse ecosystem. Crop rotation involves alternating different types of crops in the same area across seasons or years, which helps break pest and disease cycles while optimizing nutrient utilization. Certain plants, particularly legumes, can fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, enriching it and improving its fertility.

Cover crops, which are planted during off-seasons, prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds, and enhance soil structure. As these plants decompose, they contribute organic matter, increasing the soil's organic content and overall fertility. This holistic approach is sustainable and fosters a healthier soil ecosystem, leading to a more productive agricultural system in the long term.

In contrast, constantly watering the soil may lead to nutrient leaching, potentially depleting essential elements rather than enhancing fertility. Using synthetic fertilizers alone can offer a quick nutrient boost but may not address long-term soil health or contribute to microbial diversity. Removing all organic matter would severely diminish soil structure and fertility, as organic matter is crucial for nutrient retention and the overall health of the soil ecosystem.