In this Friday episode of Talking Trees, we explore the soil microbiome as a critical but often overlooked driver of tree health, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience. Far beyond just a substrate for roots, soil is a living, dynamic system influencing the entire tree environment.
We discuss:
- How soil microbial communities support nutrient cycling, disease resistance, and plant growth through complex interactions
- The concept of soil health as a foundational element of the One Health framework—linking plant, animal, and human well-being
- The evolving understanding of soil as a multifunctional ecosystem service, not merely a medium for productivity
- Why soil health assessment should integrate biological, chemical, and physical indicators to reflect its true vitality
- The dual role of soil microbes as both beneficial allies and potential sources of pathogens, highlighting the need for careful balance
Healthy soils mean healthy trees—and understanding this hidden world is key to building sustainable, resilient landscapes in the face of climate and biodiversity challenges.
Background information:
- Banerjee et van der Heijden. 2022. Soil microbiomes and one health.pdf
- Lehmann et al. 2020. The concept and future prospects of soil health.pdf
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