Weeds or plant diversity grows based on the biology within the soil and the chemical balance of the soil. When the soil has a healthy microbiome with diverse populations of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, they create a symbiotic relationship with plants. The microorganisms help plants access nutrients and water, while the plants provide carbon compounds to the microorganisms through their roots. This cycle of nutrient exchange helps build soil health and balance.
As plants grow and die, they contribute organic matter to the soil. This organic matter, along with the carbon compounds provided by the plants, helps build soil structure and fertility. This, in turn, promotes the growth of more diverse plant species, including what we often refer to as “weeds.”
These lower plant species, including weeds, have specific adaptations that make them highly effective at building soil health. For example, many weeds have deep taproots that help break up compacted soil and bring nutrients and moisture up from deeper layers of the soil. Some weeds also have allelopathic properties, meaning they release chemicals that suppress the growth of other plants, which can help reduce competition and promote plant diversity.
As the soil becomes healthier and more balanced, the plant community changes and evolves over time. This process is known as succession, and it’s an essential part of ecological balance and expression. By fostering a diverse plant community through building soil health, we can create a thriving ecosystem that supports not just plant growth but also wildlife, beneficial insects, and other organisms.
In summary, building soil health through fostering a diverse plant community is a key part of regenerative agriculture and lawn care. By understanding the biology and chemistry of the soil, we can create a healthy ecosystem that supports plant growth, biodiversity, and ecological balance.
