The existing Canada’s 4R model lacks the limiting factor for most of the cultivated land globally. Having such unpredictable weather and moisture supply in the existing complex model of modern agriculture makes crop production more and more challenging.
Currently, farmers rely on what was provided by Mother Nature from above the ground, and there is not much ability to visually trace the fate of the water that was absorbed by the soil. The current level of technology allows us to be aware that most of the water that was precipitated is in the soil, available for the future crop, and/or extra amount was added with groundwater.
During the season, having a tool that measures the amount of water that is plant-available helps to understand the water supply/discharge dynamics. This should become a must-have device for the modern farmer, regardless of his or her ability to irrigate their land. Knowing these trends would help to model the yield and quite a few other highly important parameters that impact the profitability and sustainability of the farm.
Adding a “5th R” for Right Soil Moisture to the existing 4R Nutrient Stewardship framework could improve its effectiveness in sustainable agriculture. It’s difficult to overestimate the role of soil moisture in nutrient availability and uptake by plants, influencing how well nutrients are absorbed and utilized.
This is how Right Soil Moisture could complement the existing 4Rs:
1. Enhanced Nutrient Uptake: Soil moisture affects the solubility and mobility of nutrients in the soil. Proper moisture levels ensure that nutrients are more readily available to plant roots.
2. Optimal Application Timing: Knowing the right soil moisture conditions can help estimate the best times for fertilizer application, ensuring that nutrients are not washed away by rain or irrigation and are available when plants need them most.
3. Prevention of Nutrient Loss: Too wet or dry soils can lead to nutrient losses through leaching, runoff, or volatilization. Maintaining optimal soil moisture helps minimize these losses, making fertilization more efficient and environmentally friendly.
4. Soil Health: Moisture is a key factor in maintaining soil structure and health. Proper moisture levels support microbial activity and root growth, contributing to a healthier soil ecosystem that supports sustainable agricultural practices.
By considering a soil moisture probe as a necessary component of crop production, farmers could more effectively adapt their practices to local conditions, potentially leading to better crop yields, reduced environmental impact, and improved economic outcomes. Introducing more accurate and less expensive models to the market will expand its beneficial effect to a broader audience and can help growers withstand the negative effects of limited or excessive water supply.