Natural farming

Natural agriculture according to Masanobu Fukuoka

The Natural farmingalso known as "Farming by Doing Nothing", was developed by the Japanese farmer and philosopher Masanobu Fukuoka has been developed. This method aims to minimize human intervention in natural processes as much as possible in order to enable a harmonious and sustainable form of agriculture. At its heart is the conviction that nature functions perfectly in its original form and that human agriculture often causes damage through excessive intervention and techniques.

Basic principles of natural farming

  • No tillageThe soil is not plowed or dug up. This protects the natural soil structure and promotes biodiversity and soil fertility.
  • No chemical fertilizers or pesticidesFukuoka relies on natural cycles and a balanced ecosystem to regulate pests and diseases. The use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides is completely avoided.
  • No weed controlWeeds are not controlled with chemicals or constant weeding. Instead, a natural balance between different plant species is encouraged, often through the use of ground cover or mulching.
  • No dependence on compostWhile many organic farming methods rely on compost, the organic farming method Natural farming that the soil maintains its fertility through natural decomposition and the cycle of organic matter.
  • Diversity instead of monocultureFukuoka's method promotes mixed cultivation, in which different plant species are grown side by side in order to utilize the natural symbioses and not put one-sided demands on the soil.

Aim and vision of natural farming

The aim of Natural Agriculture is to recognize the wisdom of nature and work in harmony with it, rather than disturbing it through modern agricultural techniques. Fukuoka believed that through this method, both man and nature could become healthier and more resilient.

His most famous work, "The great path has no gate" (The One-Straw Revolution), is considered a milestone for the ecological movement and continues to inspire farmers and environmental activists worldwide. The Natural farming is often regarded as the forerunner of modern forms of regenerative agriculture viewed.

 

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