Which of the following practices helps maintain soil health?

Cover cropping is a highly beneficial practice for maintaining soil health. This involves planting specific crops during periods when the main crops are not being cultivated, typically in the off-season. Cover crops, such as legumes, clover, or rye, play several crucial roles in enhancing soil vitality.

Firstly, they prevent soil erosion by providing ground cover, thus protecting the soil structure. Secondly, cover crops can improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen in the case of legumes, which enriches the soil for subsequent crops. They also help in increasing organic matter and promoting biodiversity in the soil, which is essential for a healthy ecosystem. Additionally, cover crops can improve moisture retention, suppress weeds, and enhance microbial activity in the soil, all of which contribute to a balanced soil environment that supports healthy plant growth.

Using practices like frequent tilling disrupts soil structure and can lead to erosion and nutrient loss, while excessive watering can cause soil compaction and reduce aeration. Relying solely on chemical fertilizers may provide immediate nutrients but doesn't contribute to long-term soil health or organic matter. Thus, cover cropping stands out as a well-rounded method for maintaining and improving soil health over time.