When topsoil (the portion containing natural nutrients and organic material, which plants need to thrive) is lost, soil fertility is lost. In some cases, this loss causes a change in the structure of agricultural soils, which can, in turn, lead to increased susceptibility to drought.

What is the effect of over-cultivation?

Reduced food production

The presence of soil erosion means the most fertile soil has been eroded. In addition, over-cultivation leads to the loss of soil fertility. Consequently, with such qualities, despite the number of crops one plants annually, the output is bound to deteriorate each harvest.

How Overcropping causes soil erosion?

Overcropping is when the land is being continuously under cultivation and is not allowed to lie fallow between crops. This constant farming of the land reduces the soils ability to produce valuable humus for soil fertility as it is constantly being ploughed or stripped for crop growth.