Fertile ground refers to land that is particularly capable of producing abundant vegetation growth due to its characteristics such as adequate soil, ample sunlight, and adequate moisture and nutrients Fertile ground is therefore associated with prosperous farming and supports the growth of both crops and animals. Without fertile ground, the farming industry would suffer greatly and our societies would be unable to produce food.
In order to cultivate fertile soil, a combination of environmental factors are necessary. Fertility begins with healthy soil, which requires the right mineral composition and correct pH levels. Healthy soil also requires a combination of organic matter, microbial communities, and beneficial fungi. Together, these elements ensure that the soil is nutrient-rich and able to provide valuable sustenance for vegetation. Additionally, water is essential for the fertility of soil; without regular rain or irrigation, no plants or animals would survive.
The following are five examples of fertile ground that supports thriving agriculture:
1. The Prairie Potholes – This region of north-central North America is known for its rich soils and abundant rainfall, as well as its shallow wetlands. This unique landscape supports many types of wetlands and wet meadows, which provide ideal conditions for birds and waterfowl, as well as many native grasslands. This environment is also incredibly fertile, allowing it to support a variety of cash crops such as wheat, soybeans, and potatoes.
2. The Land of Ten Thousand Lakes – Minnesota and the upper Midwest of the United States is known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.” This part of the world is known for its rich soils, warm summers, and plentiful rainfall. In this area, corn, soybeans, and wheat are staples of the agricultural industry, while dairy and beef cattle are also plentiful.
3. The Midwest Corn Belt – The Midwest Corn Belt stretches from the northern Ohio River Valley into the Dakotas, Wisconsin, and Iowa and is known for its intense corn production. This region has the ideal combination of temperature, sunlight, and soil to support corn growth, leading to the region's thriving corn industry.
4. The California Central Valley – The Central Valley of California is home to over 2.6 million acres of agricultural land. This region is known for its warm summers and mild winters, making it an ideal place to grow fruits and vegetables. This region has seen an influx of numerous crops such as almonds, pistachios, and tomatoes, and is responsible for much of the world’s avocado production.
5. The Great Plains – This grassland region stretches from Canada to Mexico and is known for its rich soil and mild temperatures. This area is home to one of the largest grain belts in the world and is responsible for producing much of the world’s wheat and corn. Additionally, The Great Plains is home to many of the world’s grass-fed beef ranches.
These five regions are examples of the world’s most fertile ground, each unique in its own way yet capable of providing abundant sustenance for many generations. Without fertile soil, none of these crops or animals would be possible, and our world would be a much different (and much hungrier) place.