The study spanned 88 fields across 30 farms in southern Sweden, showing an increase in arable plant species from an average of 15 to 35 after the farms transitioned to organic practices. This discovery underscores the long-term nature of biodiversity recovery following a shift from conventional to organic farming methods.

The findings stress the need for patience and long-term planning in agricultural policies to support farmers during the transition to organic farming. These policies should consider the gradual buildup of ecosystem services, such as those that enhance crop yields through increased arable plant diversity.

The study also noted that herbicide-sensitive plants took longer to reestablish in cereal fields that switched from conventional to organic farming, indicating a possible long-term impact of herbicides even after their use is discontinued. Moreover, the research highlighted the importance of pollinator-friendly practices, as plants dependent on insect pollination took longer to recolonize.