Crop autonomy is an achievement that requires activating all the levers within the soil–plant ecosystem. Recent Arvalis trials show that new sources of profitability are not found solely in crop rotation or plant protection products.
To identify the most effective levers, it is essential to analyse performance over recent years.
Overview of key levers for crop autonomy and profitability
Observations |
Interpretations |
Action Plan |
| No soil analyses are carried out on the farm, or existing analyses are not interpreted. | Without farm-specific references, it is difficult to define and assess an action plan. | Assess soil performance Soil analysis: a sustainable approach to soil management |
| Soil nitrogen supply is low for all crops in the rotation (winter and spring). Nitrogen (and P & K) autonomy is limited. | Mineralisation is restricted by a lack of microbial activity in the soil. |
Stimulate the soil – Step 1: balance organic matter Stimulate the soil – Step 2: balance soil microflora |
| Soil organic matter content is low, limiting nitrogen (and P & K) autonomy. | There is not enough food for soil microflora. |
Manage effluents properly in autumn Cover crops: an opportunity for soil improvement |
| Wheat crops are highly sensitive to weather conditions, particularly to excess water in winter or heat stress at the end of the cycle. | Drainage and capillary rise are limited due to poor soil microstructure. |
Effective liming Magnesium: essential for soil balance |
| Weed pressure is high despite a long rotation, and herbicide costs keep increasing. | Herbicide use parameters are not optimal. | Achieve effective weed control while reducing chemical use |
| Disease pressure is high, and herbicide costs are increasing. | Plants are stressed, making them more susceptible to disease. | Act on both the plant and the soil to optimise treatments |
In conclusion
Achieving lasting profitability means activating the right levers of soil and crop autonomy. This involves managing organic matter, supporting soil microflora and maintaining vigorous, resilient crops.
Crop autonomy is an achievement that requires activating all the levers within the soil–plant ecosystem. Recent Arvalis trials show that new sources of profitability are not found solely in crop rotation or plant protection products. To identify the most effective levers, it is essential to analyse performance over recent years. CONTENTS Summary table of autonomy […]
...Crop autonomy is an achievement that requires activating all the levers within the soil–plant ecosystem. Recent Arvalis trials show that new sources of profitability are not found solely in crop rotation or plant protection products. To identify the most effective levers, it is essential to analyse performance over recent years. CONTENTS Summary table of autonomy […]
...Crop autonomy is an achievement that requires activating all the levers within the soil–plant ecosystem. Recent Arvalis trials show that new sources of profitability are not found solely in crop rotation or plant protection products. To identify the most effective levers, it is essential to analyse performance over recent years. CONTENTS Summary table of autonomy […]
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