Farming practices are rapidly evolving, and sustainability is at the forefront of this transformation. In this case study, we explore how a California walnut grower successfully enhanced soil health, improved water conservation, and reduced pest issues by leveraging the Healthy Soils Program (HSP). Through a strategic combination of composting, mulching, and cover cropping, the grower achieved remarkable results while working to transition his orchard to organic farming.
Overcoming Farming Challenges with the Healthy Soils Program
Farming is never without its challenges, and one walnut grower faced a particularly persistent nematode infestation that was harming his yields. Nematodes are microscopic pests that can significantly damage plants, and one of the grower’s walnut orchard blocks was struggling with their effects. It was also discovered that plants suffering from water stress or nutrient deficiencies are more susceptible to nematode damage. The grower was concerned about building organic matter and soil health in order to transition successfully to organic while building resistance to pests and diseases. At the same time, saving water had become a priority for him, and he was also concerned about the residues from pesticides entering the air and water on his farm.
The Healthy Soils Program’s Impact
Through the Healthy Soils Program, the grower was able to implement several key practices aimed at improving soil health and mitigating the challenges he faced:
- Composting: Applying compost to the soil to improve nutrient cycling and enhance carbon sequestration. This was implemented where the nematode problem was most severe.
- Mulching: the application of almond shells every fall to reduce evaporation of surface water , while building organic matter in the soil and contributing nutrients like potassium.
- Cover cropping was implemented alongside these practices as a preexisting effort.
- Additionally, the farmer received technical assistance to optimize the implementation of these practices.
Achieving Results: Healthier Soil, Reduced Pest Infestations, and More Efficient Farming
The combination of these practices produced impressive results:
- Compost helped to reduce the nematode infestation: Compost releases nutrients and/or pest regulating compounds that enhance plant resistance to nematode damage and decrease nematode pest populations.
- Cover crops helped to reduce the nematode infestation: Nematode-suppressive cover crops provide added value in this case.
- Mulching conserved soil moisture and reduced weed pressure. Mulching also regulates soil temperature from extreme conditions that would otherwise adversely impact plant growth and soil organisms.
- Both compost and mulching aided the cover crop’s growth.
- All of these practices help increase the soil’s water holding capacity through organic amendments and increased root exploration.
The Bigger Picture: Why Soil Health Matters
This case study is an excellent example of how improving soil health can address multiple farming challenges at once. By implementing a Healthy Soils Practices, this walnut grower was able to combat pests, conserve water, reduce reliance on chemicals, and build a foundation for long-term farm sustainability. The Healthy Soils Program provided the technical and financial support needed to make these changes possible, showing that healthy soils are key to a more resilient farming system.
If you’re considering improving your farm’s soil health or transitioning to more sustainable practices, the success of this walnut grower shows that with the right support, it’s possible to create a thriving ecosystem that benefits both your crops and the environment.
Click here to learn more about the Healthy Soils Program and how it can help your farm.
“Organic farming is not easy, but participation in the Healthy Soils Program greatly supported my farm transitioning to an organic system, and helped improve the overall health of the orchard. Another advantage of the mulching and composting is soil nutrient balancing. There is no question about it that my soils have increased fertility and nutrient balance through adding compost and mulch. I am very thankful for the program funding.” – Leonard Loewen, of Loewen Family Farm
