Protecting Soil Biology on Regenerative Farms: Insights from Lancaster University’s Farming Innovation Forum

Understanding Soil Biology in Regenerative Agriculture

At Lancaster University’s Farming Innovation Forum, a compelling talk on regenerative farming delivered by Dr Russell Sharp, the founder of Eutrema, highlighted practical strategies to protect and nurture soil biology in arable systems. The session drew attention to how biological solutions, rather than conventional chemicals, are reshaping modern agriculture.

What Makes Regenerative Farming Different?

Regenerative agriculture isn’t just organic farming with a new name. While organics focus on avoiding synthetic inputs, regenerative practices emphasize improving soil health, minimizing disturbance, and supporting biodiversity. Core principles include:

• Minimizing soil disturbance (e.g. no-till, min-till)
• Using biological inputs instead of—or before—chemical ones
• Increasing soil organic matter
• Using cover crops and integrated nutrient and pest management

Why Soil Structure Matters

Healthy soils have a “crumb structure”—like a good biscuit—allowing for drainage, oxygen flow, and biological activity. Cultivation pans formed by repetitive tillage can impede drainage and create anaerobic zones, harming soil life. Reducing tillage preserves microbial networks and minimizes erosion.

Biological Inputs: Biostimulants, Biopesticides, and Biofertilizers

Soil biology thrives when supported by natural products. These inputs fall into three categories:

• Biostimulants: Enhance plant growth (e.g. seaweed extracts, humic acids)
• Biopesticides: Control pests using natural means (e.g. knotweed extract, chitosan)
• Biofertilizers: Provide nutrients through natural sources (e.g. fish hydrolysates, compost teas)

Chitosan, for example, is derived from fungal cell walls and stimulates plant immunity without harming soil microbes. Seaweed and molasses add valuable carbon and micronutrients that feed microbial life.

Innovative Blackgrass Control: Biological Warfare?

One of the more provocative sections detailed Eutrema’s work developing pathogen spores (rust and mildew) to target blackgrass—a major weed in UK arable fields. These pathogens only infect blackgrass, not cereal crops, offering a targeted, low-impact approach. Trials have shown promise, but results suggest it complements herbicides rather than replacing them.

The Hidden Cost of Agrochemicals on Soil Life

Several conventional farming practices unintentionally harm soil biology:

• Phosphorus applications can suppress mycorrhizae
• Urease inhibitors in nitrogen fertilizers are toxic to soil microbes
• Glyphosate binds manganese, making it unavailable to both plants and microbes
• Copper, cobalt, and nickel fertilizers—especially in foliar form—can be carcinogenic and toxic to beneficial biology

Avoiding Snake Oil in Regenerative Advice

Not all “regen” advice is science-based. Some gurus promote cobalt and nickel fertilizers for nitrogen use efficiency despite a lack of evidence. Furthermore, these compounds are known CARCINOGENS! Scientific scrutiny is essential to ensure these claims don’t compromise human and environmental health.

Positive Practices and Where to Learn More

From anaerobic digestates and guano to biosolids and cover cropping, there are many proven ways to enhance soil carbon and microbial activity.

Conclusion: Farming for Soil Health and Future Resilience

Regenerative farming offers a scientifically grounded path toward healthier soils, reduced chemical inputs, and resilient crop systems. With careful management and a willingness to challenge conventional norms, farmers can build biologically rich soils that support long-term productivity and sustainability.

Article by Dr Russell Sharp

Stay tuned to Eutrema’s research and resources as this movement continues to grow.

Check out our podcasts for more helpful information here are the links below:

Hydroponics Daily Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/207T7p7fw9sPjINfSjVXW2

Cereal Killers Podcast: https://t.co/eSEbBkTVHl