When was the last time you thought about the invisible forces beneath your fields that drive plant growth? We often focus on what we can see—crop health, weeds, pests. But what if the real key to thriving plants lies in the unseen chemistry of your soil? In his video, Olivier Husson, a researcher at the French Agronomy Center CIRAD, delves into an essential concept that could revolutionize the way we manage soil health: the pH/Redox Cross. The video is in French (sigh), and while there are other recordings of Husson in English, none of them dive quite as deeply into this fascinating topic. But don’t worry! With the help of modern technology and tools, we can unpack the science behind this concept into actionable insights that can guide your farm toward healthier soil and, with some luck, better yields.
The Balance Beneath Your Feet
You probably already know about pH—a measure of soil acidity or alkalinity. But have you considered Redox? It’s short for reduction-oxidation and reflects the balance of electrons in your soil and water systems. Together, these two factors—pH and Redox—shape the environment your plants grow in. Think of it like this: pH tells you how acidic your soil is, and Redox tells you how "alive" it is chemically. According to Husson, when pH and Redox are in harmony, plants thrive. But when they’re out of sync, you might notice stunted growth, poor nutrient uptake, or even crop failure despite all your best efforts. Some Food for Thought
1. Your Inputs Might Be Going to Waste
Ever wondered why adding more fertilizer doesn’t always lead to better results? The pH/Redox balance could be the answer. Nutrients like phosphorus or nitrogen might be locked up in your soil if the Redox level isn’t right. Monitoring this balance ensures your plants can access what they need—saving you time, effort, and money on unnecessary inputs.
2. Healthy Soil = Resilient Crops
In his video, Husson emphasizes that a balanced pH and Redox doesn’t just improve nutrient availability; it also strengthens your soil’s natural defenses. Balanced soil can better support beneficial microbes, suppress disease, and even buffer against extreme weather. Think of it as building a safety net for your crops.
3. Seeing the Unseen
Measuring pH and Redox in real-time gives you a clear picture of your plant and soil’s health. With this data, you can take precise steps to restore balance—whether it’s adjusting irrigation practices or selecting the right amendments.
What Does This Mean for Your Farm?
The pH/Redox cross isn’t just a theory; it’s a practical framework that can help you unlock your soil’s full potential. As Husson puts it, “Understanding the balance between pH and Redox gives farmers the tools to work with their soil, not against it.” If this concept intrigues you, take a few minutes to watch Olivier Husson’s video, here. And if French is not your forte, you can still watch his interview with John Kempf, here.