The land was previously treated with pesticides

by Brooke Martin
(Indiana)

We just bought 10 acres. 4.5 acres have been farmed with pesticides/ chemical for years. They will harvest the soybeans within the next couple of weeks, and then we get the land.

What is the first step to take in healing this land? We eventually want to use it for gardens, orchards, and potentially pasture.

How long should we let the land sit? Should we start a cover crop? Will it be okay to have raised beds in this area next year?

I've read a lot on what makes a good plot of land, but I would love any advice on how to enrich this land and how long it will take to rid the chemicals from it. Thank you so much!