Plant roots excrete gooey (high carbon) substances into the soil, a beneficial process to attract microbes. In return, the microbes provide nutrients to the plants. This cooperative interaction between flora and fauna is the foundation of soil health, the ultimate goal in resilient landscape systems. Healthy soils capture and filter water, recycle nutrients from decomposing organic matter, resist wind and water erosion, and grow more vigorous. Use soil-friendly management practices to increase soil carbon through:
Dense plantings of diverse plant species.
The presence of living roots in the soil, year-round.
Plant canopies and mulches that protect the soil surface.