CCA Ontario Nutrient Management Practice Exam

The use of green manures in crop production is particularly beneficial because they enhance soil structure and increase nutrient availability. Green manures, which are cover crops grown specifically to improve the soil, contribute organic matter to the soil when they decompose. This process improves soil structure by increasing porosity and promoting better aeration. Furthermore, the decomposition of green manures releases nutrients back into the soil, which can be utilized by subsequent crops.

Additionally, green manures can promote beneficial microbial activity in the soil, which further aids in the breakdown of organic materials and increases nutrient cycling. This functional relationship between plant residues and soil health leads to improved fertility over time, making green manures a vital part of sustainable agricultural practices. Other options may suggest benefits like reducing irrigation needs or eliminating chemical fertilizers, but those claims do not capture the primary and well-documented advantages green manures provide in relation to soil health and nutrient management.