Advantages and Disadvantages of Organic Farming

What is Organic Farming? It is a method which does not involve the use of chemical fertilizer or pesticides. There are various methods of farming used in this type of growing including crop rotation and the use of natural compost. There are, of course, advantages and disadvantages to organic farming that you should be aware of if you are considering this type of farming. First we should look at the disadvantages. One of the disadvantages of this kind of farming is the lack of convenience. Often, it is easier to use fertilizers and pesticides rather than rotating crops and creating a compost pile. However, easier is not always better.

The first thing people think of when they hear the word organic is that it relates only to plants, trees, fruits, vegetables and herbs but in fact, this type of farming not only encompasses botanical life but also livestock. Non-organic farming not only makes generous use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides but also antibiotics and hormones are fed to animals. Traces of these potentially dangerous hormones are found in animal products that people commonly purchase from the supermarket. Meat, eggs and milk are examples of commonly consumed animal products that may contain harmful byproducts. The public is quickly becoming aware of the potential dangers of such products, especially after the emergence of mad cow disease.

It seems simple enough and obvious that organic farming is so much healthier than non-organic farming. You can rest easy knowing the botanical and animal products you produce are safe for human consumption. Organic products are gaining popularity with consumers these days. Many people buy only organic products. Therefore, you may find the cultivation of organic products more lucrative as well. While organic .farming may involve more work and effort than non-organic farming, it is well worth it. One of the foundations of organic farming is healthy soil. When the soil is properly nurtured you will find it easier to grow organically.

There is a lot of good solid information available on the sunject of organic food and farming and if you want to find out more about the advantages and disadvantages of organic farming you will find websites devoted to farming organically as well as many forums and message boards where you can network and socialize with other organic farmers. In addition, there are many books devoted to the subject of organic farming also. One great title is Organic Farming: Everything You Need to Know by Peter V. Fossel. Another title you may want to consider is Profitable Organic Farming by Jon Newton.



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Recession hits organic farmers in VT - NECN

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Recession hits organic farmers in VT
NECN
Last year, organic farms were booming, but thanks to the recession many consumers aren't willing to pay extra for organic products. It's especially taking a .
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