What do farmers need to know about soil biology, natural capital and building more profitable, resilient farming systems?
In this episode of From the Soil Up, Conan sits down with Cameron Campbell to explore biological farming, soil fertility and the practical decisions that can improve long-term farm performance.
Cameron shares his journey into biological farming and explains how soil biology, plant health and photosynthesis influence fertility and productivity. We discuss the relationship between soil microbes and nutrient cycling, the role of trace minerals and soil amendments, and how farmers can better understand plant requirements through herbage testing.
The conversation also explores natural capital as a long-term farm investment. From grazing management and farm subdivision to succession planning and hill country legume establishment, Cameron shares practical insights into building productive, resilient farming systems.
We challenge conventional thinking around synthetic fertilisers, discuss the importance of balancing biological activity with strategic nutrient applications, and explore why investing in soil health can deliver benefits beyond immediate production, including long-term farm value and profitability.
This episode is about looking beyond short-term fixes and understanding the fundamental processes that drive farm performance.
In this episode, we cover:
- Soil biology, fertility and nutrient cycling
- Biological farming and the limitations of a fertiliser-only approach
- Photosynthesis, root exudates and building soil organic matter
- Herbage testing, trace minerals and targeted soil amendments
- Natural capital and investing in long-term farm resilience
- Grazing management, subdivision and improving pasture utilisation
- Legumes and opportunities for hill country farming
- Farm profitability, succession planning and long-term land value
- The importance of questioning assumptions and focusing on farming fundamentals
Whether you're a sheep and beef farmer, dairy farmer, rural professional or simply interested in biological and regenerative agriculture, this conversation offers practical ideas for improving soil function and making better long-term farm management decisions.
