What strategy is part of agronomic practices to support nutrient management?

Implementing cover cropping is a vital agronomic practice that supports nutrient management by improving soil health and fertility. Cover crops, such as legumes, can fix atmospheric nitrogen, enriching the soil with this essential nutrient and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. They also enhance soil structure, prevent erosion, and improve water retention. Additionally, cover crops can capture and recycle nutrients that would otherwise be lost through leaching and runoff, thereby promoting a more sustainable nutrient management system.

The other options do not contribute positively to nutrient management. For instance, using low-quality seeds can result in poor crop yields and diminished soil health. Reducing crop diversity can lead to increased susceptibility to pests and diseases, compromising the ecosystem balance and nutrient cycling. Lastly, while synthetic pesticides can manage pests effectively, their use does not directly relate to enhancing nutrient management and can pose risks to soil and environmental health. Thus, implementing cover cropping stands out as a robust strategy in supporting nutrient management within agronomic practices.