Advancing apple orchard management through soil organic carbon: A systems-based review

Modern agricultural systems face the challenge of balancing high productivity and ecological sustainability. Soil organic carbon (SOC) plays a key role in connecting the productive and ecological functions of apple orchards by acting as a bridge between human activities and natural processes. This review highlights new research on how SOC can transform agricultural landscapes in apple orchards. SOC not only serves as a reservoir of nutrients but also acts as a central concept to link different aspects of agricultural systems. Agronomic management practices, such as precise handling of crop residues, innovative organic soil amendments, and diverse cover cropping systems, have proven effective in improving essential ecosystem functions in apple orchard management. These methods enhance nutrient cycling, promote beneficial soil microbes, and increase resilience in farming systems. By viewing agricultural landscapes as interconnected networks that serve multiple purposes, this study moves beyond conventional one-size-fits-all approaches to farming. SOC is a critical factor in delivering ecosystem services. This review emphasizes that tailored site-specific farming practices can help achieve a balance between productivity and environmental health. We recommend adopting an integrated approach for apple orchard management that focuses on continuous learning and targeted actions across different levels of farming operations.