An Insightful Understanding of Our Soils

This was not always the case and looking back, Mary was doubted by farmers telling her what she was talking about and said it was rubbish and nonsense because at that time no one understood her point of view. Thanks for the encouragement from other scientists who told her to keep going with what she was doing, that the world needed people like her, she finally over time was able to get the recognition she deserves.Now older farmers go to her to ask if she can test their soils and help to lessen the chemical inputs because they have grandchildren with allergies or eating problems. They think it’s because of the number of chemicals they put in their crops. Now, especially with students coming from universities doing research as interns, they tell her that in 14 weeks they were able to learn more from her than a 4-year course in the university. Traditionally biology is still not taught in these institutions.The world is full of life. However, most people don’t know that all the growth in the natural world can be directly attributed to what is happening underground. All the plants and animals are alive because of the life within the soil. From a personal perspective, Mary defines regenerative agriculture as the foundation of caring for the soil that supports life. It’s about caring for the country in all that we do.And what about weeds? At some point, fire and climate change impact weed management. Weeds are negatively seen but the initial growth after a fire burns through an area, are great rehabilitators as they are fast-growing providing much-needed soil cover. Unfortunately, many farmers have been taught that weeds aren’t good and they should be eradicated at all costs. However, evidence shows that farmers need to change their way of thinking about weeds. Weeds are great indicators of the soil and of its health, many common ones containing much-needed minerals. If farmers understand this, Mary thinks that would be awesome!Mary also knows that farmers suffer because of how they sell their products. She wants people to know the value of good food and why it is important not to waste it. If people can grow their own food, it is much better than buying it.  She believes that the solution lies in understanding how our soils play a vital role in plant nutrition, disease resistance, and everything that has life.