Many Little Hacks: Agroecological Plant Protection through Regenerative Potato Cropping

Abstract

Typically potato farming practices are characterized by tight rotations, intensive tillage and fertilization. This leads to soil degradation, increased pest and disease pressure, and use of chemicals, thereby endangering ecosystem health and contaminating water supplies. Agroecological strategies were tested, including the strategic use of cover crops, reduced tillage, and organic fertilization by compost and transferred mulch of green manures. These practices were shown to improve soil structure, increase soil biodiversity, reduce the need for chemical inputs, and enhance crop resilience against pests and diseases. Findings underscore the effectiveness of agroecological management systems in increasing both ecological and economic sustainability in potato farming. The study argues for a change, away from individual measures and solutions and toward an interlocking ecoagricultural system and systemic thinking to reduce or avoid chemical pesticides, high fertilizer input, and tillage. Information © The Authors 2024