The Nexus between Soil Health and Crop Productivity: A Systematic Review of Agronomic Strategies

The critical intersection between soil health and crop productivity forms the backbone of sustainable food systems. As global populations rise and arable land degrades, shifting from extractive to regenerative agronomy is no longer optional. This systematic review evaluates the multi-dimensional nature of soil health-encompassing physical, chemical, and biological indicators—and its direct correlation with sustainable yield increases. We analyze diverse agronomic strategies, including conservation tillage, integrated nutrient management, and cover cropping, highlighting their roles in enhancing soil organic matter and microbial diversity. The review synthesizes data from varied climatic zones, demonstrating that healthy soils act as a buffer against climate-induced stresses while optimizing nutrient use efficiency. Despite the clear benefits, adoption is often hindered by socio-economic constraints and a lack of standardized metrics. We conclude that a paradigm shift toward precision soil management and policy-backed incentives is essential to bridge the gap between soil conservation and global caloric demand, ensuring long-term agricultural resilience.