Agricultural aspects are rapidly evolving to fit the growing demand for quality and high yields. But it is not only about yields – farmers are adapting to new agriculture developments that ensure environmental safety. That is farming practices which improve soil health to sustain high-quality produce and minimize the addition of harmful wastes to the environment. This is why governments and food safety bodies like the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization provide farmers with information on organic farming.
Talking of organic farming, you are sure to produce quality yields at a low cost. In turn, there is a high return on your investment. This farming practice is one of the oldest forms of agriculture. In fact, many traditional farmers primarily used the organic farming method. The farming system involves the use of natural materials to produce yields. With this system, farmers depend on natural processes that maintain biodiversity in all production aspects like weed control, pest control, livestock farming, crop farming, and soil conservation. The results are usually large and healthy yields that command high returns.
Maintaining Fertility of the Soil
The importance of fertile soil in food production can no longer be stressed. Soil fertility affects the quality of your produce and determines the resistance level of your crops to diseases and pests. Besides, good soil is not susceptible to weeds.
To ensure your soil remains fertile, one best practice is to apply organic fertilizers. Organic fertilizers incorporate green plant remains and animal manures. This is opposed to the application of sewage or environmental wastes to the soil. Another common fertilizer for maintaining fertile soil is the application of organic dry pelleted fertilizer. With this particular fertilizer, you have an advantage since the fertilizer contains plenty of traceable mineral components useful for plant production.
Pest, Disease, and Weed Control
Organically, the best practices for controlling pests and weeds are physical destruction or use of biological means. Physical or mechanical control can also involve fencing your farm to keep away pests (large animals). On the other hand, biological mechanisms would mean releasing a predator to feed on the pests or the weeds. Regarding weed management, you can liaise with a certified organic farming store for pesticides extracted from crops. This is also the standard practice if you want to control pests (insects) using an insecticide or weeds using herbicides.
Crop Rotation
As one of the best organic farming practices, crop rotation is as significant in food production as other organic farming practices. The system ensures farming continuity thereby, sustaining your yields and revenue. It also maintains soil nutrients and ensures maximum use of the nutrients – crops are rotated seasonally, strategically following each other depending on their nutrient requirements. For example, you can cultivate beans after wheat. This practice improves soil structure as well.
Are you still tied up in understanding the essential aspects of organic farming? These methods will positively transform your venture through dedication. Well, if you have been in the agricultural industry, you perhaps have been using this practices. If you are a novice, the methods are as well fitting for you, and are on demand as many farmers are ready to buy and use organic products.
