Soil is essential for life on earth because it nurtures plants, which in turn provide food and oxygen for humans and animals. A healthy soil is the basis for healthy living. The apples, pears and plums of Bettina and Enrique are organic so no fertilizer, pesticides or
herbicides are used that end up in the ground. As a result, the soil is very rich in biodiversity.
Agro Roca takes special measures to keep the soil healthy: they use compost and they plant hedges and meadows between the orchards to prevent erosion and nutrient leaching.
The positive effects of composting are numerous. Soil water management is improved, with better drainage and reduced erosion and runoff. As a result the soil is more resistant to drought or flooding. Biodiversity is greatly improved. Soil-borne diseases are suppressed. More organic matter is stored in the soil, that compensates for greenhouse gas emissions. In short, good composting brings fertility.