Myriads of different creatures live in a healthy soil. Fungi, bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, insects, worms, small mammals. Everything depends on each other. Fungi and bacteria can break down minerals from rocks and in turn serve as food for protozoa, nematodes etc.. These in turn excrete nutrients that can be absorbed by plants. Dead plant parts serve as food for many living creatures, etc. A cycle that only works if all parts are present. In a soil that is out of balance due to pesticides, excessive fertiliser or too little humus content, this cycle no longer functions properly and therefore cannot provide enough nutrients for the plants we want to grow. The plants get sick more easily and bear less fruit. The increased use of pesticides and fertilisers only exacerbates this condition. The better way is to get this cycle of life going again. That is why on our farm we strive to provide as much food and habitat as possible for the various creatures in the soil. That is why it is a reason for us to rejoice when we discover another new species of mushroom on our property - proof that the soil beneath our feet is recovering!
