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Farming systems can affect soil biology, soil pathogens and system resilience: GRDC – QLD, NSW (Webpage)

This Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) webpage explains the findings from a project investigating the effect of different cropping systems on soil microbiological diversity and resilience at 2 sites, one in Qld and one in NSW. Sustaining and enhancing soil biological function is integral for the productivity and sustainability of agricultural systems, offering opportunities to build soil carbon and enhance overall ecosystem health. The study found that increasing crop diversity and maintaining living plant cover enhanced soil microbial diversity, activity and system resilience. Systems with long fallows or frequent no-crop periods showed reduced biological functions, diversity and resilience. High nitrogen fertiliser rates generally suppressed microbial biomass, activity and resilience. The research aims to develop functional soil biology indicators tailored to crop rotations, tillage, and nutrient management to assess and improve biological health in cropping systems. This paper is available as a downloadable PDF [780 KB, 10 pages]. It may be relevant to other Australian regions. #

  • Audience: RSP, tertiary students, landholders, SFSG, consultants
  • State: ACT, NSW, NT, QLD, SA, TAS, VIC, WA
  • Author/Editor: V Gupta, Q Yang, R Exposito, S Kroker, M Hicks, B Nidumolu, M Farrell, J Kirkegaard, A Richardson and L Bell
  • Publisher: GRDC
  • Resource Type: Webpage
  • Copyright Year: 2025
  • Not Provided
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Resource Last Updated: August 18, 2025

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