Organic Farming, Its Impact on Biodiversity

Saturday, 21 August 2010

Organic farming (OF) is leveraging nature and natural processes to grow crops or rear animals without damage to the environment. The 'natural' orientation of organic farming suggests that fertilizers and pesticides are not used in the process. It is this feature of organic farming has a significant impact on biodiversity.

Biodiversity refers primarily to the variety of life forms in the context of a specific geographical area. Rapid industrialization, urbanization and mass farming techniques decrease the biodiversity of geographical areas. Inorganic agricultural methods exacerbate this by emphasizing mass production and efficiency without encouraging a thriving natural environment for animals and crops.

It is easy to understand the direct impact a natural farming system, such as OF, has on wildlife in their natural environment. The application of principles of OF leads to an increase in biodiversity in comparison with other farming methods.

Organic farming has also been shown to increase the abundance of wildlife in addition to increasing biodiversity. Conventional farming methods suggest that pests should be destroyed so that they would not interfere with crops and livestock. OF embodies the view that balance in nature would reduce the effect of pests' on farming without the use of pesticides, for example.

That organic farming encourages pests also suggests that it encourages natural predators. What some farmers regard as pests are really food for some other animal. The absence of worms and insects would lead to the absence of birds as well. That basic logic governs the impact of OF on biodiversity.

The use of the mixed farming' and crop rotation' methods has also resulted in greater biodiversity through organic farming. With mixed farming, different crops are planted in a particular area. This variety creates room for more groups of organisms to thrive among the crops that constitute their habitat. Crop rotation has a similar effect and encourages more micro-organisms to inhabit fertile soils through natural means.

Organic farming might not provide high-yield harvests, but can increase biodiversity. However, improper use of its methods may hinder biodiversity as well. It is important to recognise that an increase in the quantity and variety of life forms are likely effects of natural farming methods - but they are not necessarily guaranteed effects.

The organisms that are likely to benefit from OF include many forms of flora and fauna associated with farmlands. Farmland birds, insects, micro-organisms, arachnids, weeds, fungi and bacteria are just some of the organisms that are directly impacted by organic farming. With benefits such as abundant life forms and an increase in the diversity of farm life; OF can help to ease the environmental burden created by anti-conservation activities.

The Benefits of Organic Farming

Organic farming is a wonderful endeavor for anyone who would like to grow beautiful and tasty vegetables on their own land in an environmentally friendly way. The methods of organic farming combines the knowledge of ecology and modern agricultural technology with traditional farming practices based on naturally occurring biological processes. This type of farming uses many different methods to improve the fertility of the soil. These methods include crop rotation, cover cropping, and application of nutrient rich compost. Contrary to popular beliefs, organic farming can compete with traditional farming practices quite effectively in growing corn, soybeans, wheat, barley and other grains as well as many types of vegetables and fruits.

Organic fertilizers are an important part of an organic farming operation because the fertility of the soil is vital to healthy and bountiful crops. Organic fertilizers are made from many different types of naturally occurring substances such as bat guano, feather meal, and fish meal. Commercially manufactured organic fertilizers include compost, bloodmeal, bone meal, humic acid, amino acids, brassin and seaweed extracts. The advantages to using organic fertilizers are many but one of the main benefits is that these fertilizers and soils are proven to be better for your health as well as the environment and will not affect the size of your yield. Organic fertilizers also have the advantage of not having certain problems associated with the regular heavy use of artificial fertilizers. Reapplying artificial fertilizers regularly and with ever increasing amounts to sustain soil fertility becomes necessary when synthetic fertilizers are used. Also eutrophication of bodies of water can occur resulting in polluted water supplies and large scale fish kills. Because of their natural makeup, organic fertilizers increase physical and biological nutrients in soils and help the soil retain them, thus minimizing the risks of over-fertilization.

Organic farming may be most widely recognized for what methods it does not use like artificial fertilizers and synthetic herbicides; however, it is more important to define organic farming by the methods that are being used. Farming organically entails the development and preservation of an ecological system where problems are solved naturally and this balance is maintained through the proper implementation and management of such practices. Organic farming has become one of the fastest growing segments of the agricultural industry in the United States recently and today, the vision of organic farming as ecologically sustainable agriculture practiced by small farmers is headed toward more large scale farming operations to provide ethically sound and healthy food for many.

Information Technology in Agriculture

Today's Scenario

Agriculture is the sector which continues to sit on the driver's seat and will remain so forever as long as we don't get rid of stomachs; So it becomes fairly important for any reform or revolution to address this sector and in this race information technology has been the front runner.

Information technology has led from the front in the information sharing process among the Agro scientists, Engineers, Farmers and Students. Because of the core dependency of information technology on Internet might have restricted the reach of the information but situation will not remain so for long.

Now scientists from all over the world collaborate over the internet, for sharing the information about the research on land fertility, seed hybridization, reducing the man efforts and making the farming environment less challenging and cost effective.

Future Guidelines

In an edition of "The economist", I encountered something which could trigger anxiety in anyone when it states "1974 Henry Kissinger, then America's secretary of state, told the first world food conference in Rome that no child would go to bed hungry within ten years. Just over 35 years later, in the week of another United Nations food summit in Rome, 1 billion people will go to bed hungry. This failure, already dreadful, may soon get worse. None of the underlying agricultural problems which produced a spike in food prices in 2007-08 and increased the number of hungry people has gone away. Between now and 2050 the world's population will rise by a third, but demand for agricultural goods will rise by 70%." Usual business is not going to better the estimates, as the panacea lies in the maximum involvement of information technology in agricultural research and knowledge transfer.

Agriculture sector has stood against the time and achieved green, white, yellow, blue and cyber revolutions over the time.

Availability of information and effectively using this information is crucial for successful economic development. Information about expert suggestions, material inputs, financial support, technological innovations and changing market conditions have huge impact on agriculture equally as the case with any other sector.

How well the Agriculture involves information technology in itself, will play a major role in determining the future well being of those who have direct dependency on agriculture for livelihood, especially in developing countries like India.

In this context, it is most prudent to extend the benefits of IT to agriculture and not to underestimate the tremendous growth potential to be unleashed in this sector.

Planting a New Lawn From Seed the Right Way

So your decision is made to save some money and plant your new lawn from seed. This route may take a little longer, but it gives a better degree of control in what will be going on in your lawn for the next couple of months. Unlike when you sod, seeding gives you a chance to remediate a problem area in your soil without having to remove a dead patch of sod. The best time to plant your new seed is in the late summer or early fall. This type of climate with warm days, cold nights, and increased rainfall, provides an ideal environment to germinate your new turf seeds. Another benefit of this timing is that most weeds will have stopped germinating by this point and will not compete with your new seeds for nutrients and water. If late summer or early fall are not an option then the next best time to plant would be early spring. One thing to note here is that if you do plant in the early spring your planting steps will be a little different. For more info on early spring planting consult a local nursery or gardening center for specific info on you region.

Seed selection is another area you can benefit from your local experts. Do to advances in recent years in agriculture, your choices for grass have increased dramatically. No longer do you have to settle for a strain that you don't want because it isn't "right" for your climate. To get even more foolproof results you can go with seed mixtures. Seed mixtures will give you the best results because you will get a variety of various species that are selected for a specific trait. These mixtures will provide you with your best chance for a successful lawn if your yard has a combination of different types of soil (ex. Wet, dry, sunny, or shady).

Now it's time to get dirty. Before you can begin planting your seed you need to make sure your soil is prepared and up to par. To find out more on this go to. I cannot stress this point enough, final soil prep, seeding, and insuring your seed is planted at the proper depth is absolutely critical. The soil should be raked free of all unwanted debris. Large stones or clumps of soil will prevent good root propagation in the area so make sure you remove undesirable material. Large stones may also become a safety hazard upon your first few times mowing your new law so take extra care in this area.

Next step is to spread your seed. Whatever the recommended seed count (per square inch) is, divide that in half and set your spreader up for that seed count. Once you have your spreader all set up, going in one direction only, completely cover the area where you want to have your lawn. With that done, prepare to do a second pass but this time make your pass perpendicular to your initial pass. This method will give you your best coverage. Now that your seed is down you need to rake your seed to approximately a quarter inch in depth and then use a water roller that is only a quarter full to lightly pack that soil down on the seeds.

Now all that is left is for you to ensure your soil stays moist. The top two inches must stay moist until your seeds have good root development. Some slight drying on the surface is fine but should be kept to a minimum. To aid in moisture retention you can use multiple light waterings and straw mulch that stays moist and prevents moisture evaporation. If straw is used spread it out so you can see about a third of the soil through it.

You may also consider using a herbicide for weed control. Make sure to use a product that is labeled for Newly Seeded Lawns. If you do not feel comfortable working with chemicals there are numerous professional pesticide applicators for hire in the phone book.

When it Comes to Organic Vegetable Seeds Or Plants

Grow fresh organic vegetables and herbs in your own back yard. Thought you were too busy to have a garden this year. Growing your own organic vegetables ensures that your vegetables are free from pesticides and chemicals. It is also often considerably more affordable to grow your own organic vegetables than to purchase organic foods at the store.

Organic vegetables are cultivated using the most primitive form of agriculture that is organic agriculture. Organic agriculture or organic gardening for vegetables does not involve the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Organic Vegetables uses Cascadian Farm's innovative steam seam technology to perfectly steam cook the pouch of frozen fresh-from-the-field vegetables and retain more of their natural taste and Pure Goodness!

Broccoli and Carrots are accentuated with a special blend of garlic and herbs and lightly seasoned, creating a flavorful side dish to add to your table. Organic vegetables are tastier, prettier and healthier than their non-organic counterparts. Organic gardening benefits not only you and your family, but your land, animals and the earth.

Plants such as marigolds, sunflowers, and dill can attract beneficial insects that will help control pest populations. Crop rotation can reduce the build-up of certain pests. Tomatoes are a favorite crop to grow in any body's garden, and are delicious, nutritious and versatile. If you grow them using organic methods , you know how much tastier they are than conventionally-grown ones. Tomato plants can be grown in a container if you don't have access to a garden.

Growers can purchase certified organic potting mixes from a commercial supplier, or mix their own. Organic bag cultured vegetables may include a combination of incorporated, topdressed, liquid-fed, and foliar fed fertilization systems. Growing our own allows us to truly know exactly what is on our vegetables and exactly what went into the soil that it grew in. Organic Vegetable Seeds are very inexpensive and with a little care will produce several months worth of food and more for the winter if you store them properly .

Exceptional Used Farm Machinery

Purchasing equipment for your farm can be very expensive. But in order for you to run a successful operation, you must have equipment that is affordable and in good working condition. Used farm machinery is a wonderful alternative to buying new and can cut your initial investment and on-going costs by thousands of dollars. In order to get the best deals, you need to become aware of the ways that you can get the best equipment for the money that you have available to spend.

Whenever you buy used equipment, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Always go to a reputable dealer who is willing to work with you to find the right equipment at a price you can afford. Go online and browse through the many websites that list both new and used farm equipment. Compare quality and prices and look closely at the current market value of each item that you are considering. It's a good idea to never pay more for an item than what it is worth on the current market unless it has long-term investment possibilities.

Be sure to consider what it is going to cost you for replacement parts down the road. Sometimes older equipment requires parts that are hard to find and expensive to buy. Do your research and find out what the hours of use are for each item. If what you are looking at has passed the recommended hours of use, then make sure you know the maintenance history of the item and what it was used for. This is true even for equipment that seems to be in top shape but is at the end of its recommended use period.

One of the most important things to do before buying used farm machinery is to have a reputable mechanic take a close look at it. A well-trained mechanic can give you expert advice and spot any problem areas. He or she knows farm machinery well and can tell you if it is at the end of its useful period. Finally, make sure that the machinery you buy is mechanically sound and not damaged. Damaged farm equipment ends up being a liability, both for you and for your farm's overall operation.

Agricultural Store

Agricultural Stores are specialists in the supply of Agricultural products and equipment. Agriculture is widely used and is a growing market. Mainly farming based you will find a lot of equipment like tractors available along with bigger more expensive machinery.

It is not just machinery you will find; seeds, chemicals and all manner of farm related items are available. These shops are widespread but not found so much ion town centres; you are usually situated out of the way in country sides and farming villages.

Agricultural Stores has more than one meaning though, the other being Storage. Apart from being used as a term to describe a specific shop, it is also a term used to describe the storage of Agricultural Machinery. Farmers do not always have the space to store their larger machinery like combine harvesters and tractors. This is when the stores come in to place, at a price the farmer may rent storage room in which he can store all of his equipment and machines. The stores are also very secure and safe, nobody except yourself will be aloud access (unless you state other people as exceptions). These stores are often even used when the farmer does has room for his machinery but simply does not feel it is safe enough to be left outside.

The only inconvenience of the stores can be its location in relation to you, shipping containers are a way around this, they are mobile and can be set up at your desired location, working in the same way they are secure and allow you lots of storage space.

Agricultural Equipment and Machinery Accessory Dealers

One of the most important elements among all agricultural equipment and machinery is a tractor. If your farm is large enough, you will need a suitable tractor to aid you when it comes to tilling the land. However, new tractors are some of the most expensive pieces of agricultural machinery any accessory dealer can sell you. This means that you may have to consider the option of buying a used tractor if you want to save money. Usually, used tractors will have prices that are generally lower than the retail prices for new models.

In case you are looking for tractors for sale, you may lack the knowledge and time for shopping around to get the best price ranges. First of all, you may be plagued by ignorance on the usual prices of these kinds of used agricultural equipment. You may also be unaware of the various brands and makes of tractors on the market. This means that even as you shop, you will not be that certain about exactly what you are looking for. In fact, you may even not know where to look for the best kinds of used tractors.

Still, you can be certain that most dealers in agricultural accessories such as machinery and equipment will normally list their products on the internet. This means that you only need to have a computer that has access to the internet for you to reach these dealers.

The internet lists a thousand and one different types of used agricultural machines. The machines also come with a very wide range of different prices. The implication here is that it is relatively easy to track down the tractor that meets your specifications just adequately.

Therefore, in case you need a used tractor, you will only have to access the internet and type in some relevant keywords. You can be certain that you will locate the exact machine you want. Of course, you will have to review the products being offered by different accessory dealers and their particular specifications. For instance, you will look at the make, the year of manufacture, how long it has been in use, the condition it is in at that moment and, most importantly, the pricing.

The other aspect you need to look out for in used tractors is whether your agricultural equipment dealer will offer you some added services. A tractor for sale which is getting serviced by the seller may cost you more than one which is not. Still, you can be certain that the former will be a better option and even cheaper in the long run. You will only need to drive it right into your farm and put it into the necessary use immediately without having to take time off your busy schedule to get it serviced.

To conclude, as you go about looking for agricultural equipment and machinery- accessory dealers will offer them on the internet- such as used tractors for sale, you can be certain that you will get exactly what you desire. However, you will need to review different tractors from various dealers in order to locate the best for your farm.

Robert Tate - Region Sales Manager of Mascus UK. Mascus is an electronic marketplace for tractors for sale, used tractors and used trucks. Mascus makes trading in used machines and trucks quicker and more efficient by collecting all information about supply and demand in one place. All dealers, producers and end users are welcome to offer their used machines and trucks for sale via the marketplace.

Maintenance Checklist For Your Fencing Machines

Farming is always full of jobs that you can feel you didn't "sign up for" including the seemingly constant turnover of purchasing new machinery and tools to keep your farm ticking over and functioning smoothly. However, taking time to first purchase quality tools and equipment and then take care of them, including regular maintenance checks will help ease that particular burden off your shoulders.

If you want to check your fencing machines for wear and tear, there are several different things you should check. If these show significant disintegration, new parts or a new model should be purchased.

- Check over all the couplings and clamps to ensure they fit firmly and are undamaged. If they are worn they will need to be replaced.

- If any of the wires are frayed, broken or damaged they will need to be replaced. Sometimes the wire begins to be stretched a little and needs to be readjusted. It is good to lubricate the wire and retest it.

- Examine the farm machinery carefully for any hairline fractures or stress breaks. These can cause a dramatic problem if not attended to, including full breakdown and potential injury to the user. It is best to contact your supplier about resolving these with either a mend or full replacement.

- Check all moving parts are well lubricated, particularly the hammer slide and mast to ensure it works smoothly and safely. Also pay attention to any pivot pins. If you have mended any areas in the past with welding, carefully check over your welding to ensure it is still holding.

- Any pulleys on the machine need to be free spinning and working smoothly. If it's sticking at all or feels a little rough it's advisable to replace these parts.

- Check the bolts to ensure they are all firm. Make sure they are all there and replace any you find are missing.

- Check for leaks in the hydraulic hoses and couplings. If you find leaks, these need to be replaced.

- If the safety features of the equipment look in anyway worn, it is essential you replace these immediately to ensure your continued safety in using the product.

Even the very best of machines will need good maintenance and eventual replacement. By looking after your farm machinery you will get the very best return for your investment.

What Does the Increasing Demand For Forestry and Agriculture Equipment Indicate?

Despite the ever increasing number of people who decide to move from the rural to have a taste of the urban life, it cannot be denied that farming is something that will not be a total threat to urbanization.

Even if more people decide to migrate from their rural areas, there are still people who won't leave their lands in exchange for the urban life. For as long as food and fresh air are still part of our basic necessities, farming and agriculture would not or should not be left in careless abandon.

Even if the world is constantly developing or progressing, it will not make any sense if food, healthy food at that, will no longer be accessible to all. Because of progress, the world may be able to afford to pay for the food they are going to eat but if the farmers gradually start to lose interest in farming or agriculture, then people might have to endure the consequences of modernization and urbanization. Our hope lies on the rest of the farmers who weren't thinking about switching to a different career. Fortunately, because of progress and modernization, technology has made way for efficient forestry and agriculture equipment such as farm tractors (John Deere, Caterpillar and other famous brands), plows, tillers, loaders and other farming related innovations to help them deliver the best of their production.

Even rich people who decide to move out of the city because they want to live in a peaceful, healthy and stress-free suburb would also know the importance of eating healthy food that they are also into farming themselves. Some of them are buying large hectares of land and devote a large area for farming and agriculture, both for consumption and commercial purposes. Soon enough, we will already solve shortage of food production if we ourselves will put an effort to produce our own food, even if our planting or farming be limited only to growing selected vegetables, crops and fruit-bearing trees in our backyard.

For the record, there is an increasing demand for forestry and agriculture equipment, like tractors, loaders, wagons and other farm machinery. This is hopefully an indication that we are getting better towards balancing modernization, industrialization, livelihood, farming and agriculture.

How to Improve Safety When Operating Agricultural Machinery

While farming might seem like a simple process: plant crops, harvest, and repeat, agriculture is actually a complex and often dangerous industry. The heavy machinery used to move, load, plant and harvest crops in such large numbers presents many hazardous situations, and understanding the proper safety precautions and practices is crucial to reducing the risk of injury on the job. Below, get details on how to improve safety when operating heavy agricultural machinery.

Proper Training:

Before taking a seat on a piece of large farm machinery to get the job done, workers must be fully trained on how to properly drive and operate the equipment. Workers should also know the proper safety procedures to follow should the machine fail or malfunction. Get a feel for the way the machine moves and handles, and understand the danger zones that exist when operating the vehicle. Knowing how to enter and exit the vehicle is also important. Never mount or dismount from a moving machine, do not jump off of a machine, and make sure your hands are free of tools.

Buckle Your Seat Belt:

Although farm equipment may not move very fast, it is still important to wear a seat belt. Some machines must cross public roads, where the risk of a collision increases. There is also the chance that the machinery could roll over due to unstable conditions. Buckling your seat belt should become habit when entering any piece of large farm machinery.

Appropriate Clothing:

When working on a farm with heavy equipment, be sure to wear tight-fitting clothing. Clothes that are loose or baggy increase the risk of injury, as it is possible that sleeves, pants or shirts could get caught in heavy machinery. Proper footwear protects the feet from falling objects, in addition to giving workers better traction in slippery areas. Wear clean boots when entering or exiting large farm equipment to reduce the risk of falling.

Inspection and Testing:

Farmers should always be sure that their equipment is working properly and efficiently before using it. When in the fields, be sure to use sight, smell and hearing to be aware of any changes in the machine's operation. If a piece of equipment is not working properly, alert a supervisor immediately. If the transmission must be rebuilt, make sure that your transmission remanufacturer is experienced and reliable.

Agricultural Equipment Finance

Agriculture in India has a long history. Even today, the industry represents the largest economic sector in India, employing close to half of the total workforce. As the demands of an enormous and growing population continue to push farming output, Indian banks are providing greater and more varied financial assistance to the country's farmers.

The agreement between tractor manufacturers and banks has offered Indian farmers new opportunities for agricultural finance, while further driving the country's significant agricultural sector. With tractors representing the unchanging foundation of the farming industry, this equipment is a key focus for banks. The Indian tractor market is among the largest in the world.

To access agricultural equipment finance, farmers first contact a dealer with tractors for sale, or approach a bank branch directly. There is an emerging network of suitable bank branches in rural and semi-urban India. Most leading banks have developed tractor loans with a careful understanding of rural India. The consideration of these different and varied needs has resulted in a fairly straightforward application process, involving reduced documentation and processing time. Farmers can access finance for tractors of different makes and brands, and with some banks it is even possible to apply online.

As with all loans, eligibility is dependent on the borrower's credit history and their individual requirements. For this type of finance, the applicant must be a salaried individual, and an agriculturalist. Loan amounts also vary, depending on the specific vehicle. Banks fund 90% of the equipment cost, and many times this is extended to 100%.

Farmers are sometimes given lower interest rates, as a further impetus for the agricultural industry. Depending on the details of the loan, flexible payment plans are established, from monthly to quarterly and half-yearly.

The agriculture equipment market is growing steadily. Manual labour is an integral element of rural India, and an ageless system of farming. Tractors play an essential role in the automated agricultural life of the country, and their importance has been recognised by banks. Today's farmers have an opportunity to apply for tractor finance and take advantage of innovative payment terms, suited to rural requirements.

Defining the Risk in Agricultural Commodities

Many investors shy away from agricultural investments because of the misconception that agriculture is a risky venture. However, whether the venture is risky or not really does not lie in the sector, but more on the investor himself. Agricultural investments have its defined risk and benefits. It will indeed be very risky if one were to invest in low quality land. However, the case if very different if we were talking about prime investment grade farmland which provides stable and consistent returns while appreciating the principle.

Investors who do not have a foot in the agricultural commodity market is sorely missing out. I would guess that almost 90% of those reading this has absolutely no idea how the agricultural commodities can benefit them. This is not your fault entirely as most stock brokers and hedge fund managers are always calling for more buys into properties and bonds. Investors often call the agricultural commodity 'risky', but these are the very same folks who buy heavily into funds where they watch their shares go to zero. No commodity has ever gone to zero, and they never will.

Agriculture is the staple of almost every country's economy. By being able to provide the basic necessarily of life - food, agriculture commodity creates a tremendous economic impact. It cannot be denied that the food and farming industry is critical to the balance of trade and employment in every nation. All across the country, it is agricultural farmland that supports the economic base of nation. Let us not forget the impact that China will have on the worlds agricultural economy. The United States has a population of about 280 million, and about 330 million crop acres in production. In similar comparison, China has 1.4 billion people living off 270 million crops acres! The economic boom in China is imminent and just starting.

In recent years, the land and agricultural business has not received the best of press. There are a few selected companies out there which are measured as trustworthy, and all it takes is determination on your part to seek out these companies and to learn about investing in the agricultural commodity. Investing in agriculture can be very lucrative to the informed investor. Therefore, it is highly advisable that you seek and follow the latest news on very exciting sector.

Welcome to the Future of Robotic Farming

Eli Whitney built the first cotton gin, and that revolutionized cotton farming, it changed everything, forever in that sector. Today the business of agriculture is going very high-tech, very fast. More mechanized equipment, robotic systems, and high-tech tools.

The massive productivity increases and crop yields is completely astounding, unfortunately, this also causes a problem for people, workers who make their money on farms and picking crops - they just will not be needed in the future.

This means they may not be able to feed their own families. Indeed, I can look back at my family tree and before the 1940s my ancestral charts show ten kids in nearly every family. Why? Simple they were farmers and needed the labor, may as well "keep it in the family" so to speak.

Today Dairy Farms have 25 to 35 head of cattle per employee, the cows rest on water bed mattresses, and robotic stainless steel equipment hooked up to a computer milks the cows. Higher milk yield, happier cows, less infection, sounds like a good life to me, and that my friends is the future of the agriculture business in a nutshell.

The modern day combine is over half-a-million dollars, runs on GPS coordinates, and looks more like the space shuttle inside than anything close to a 1940s tractor. In fact, once you put the combine in position, just hit go, like you would in a 747 cleared for take-off and it will fly the whole trip and land in zero-zero visibility at the designated airport.

So too, will a modern day combine, it can do the entire job in dense fog and tell you when it's done, while you are merely along for the ride "just in case" as you sit in complete comfort with surround a sound music, air-conditioning and you can even watch the game. Yah, farming is hard work? Not anymore, never again will it be.

And just as the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) works on telerobotics, they have high-tech farm equipment that can do the same. Instead of a flying UAV, it's an unmanned agricultural vehicle (UAV), the military version would be an unmanned ground vehicle or UGV, but rest assured this technology is coming to a field near you soon.

Interestingly enough, these high-tech pieces of equipment are also getting harder and harder to maintain, meaning Farmer Joe in the future might have a computer degree from MIT. Please consider all this.

The Business of Agriculture

No Till Farming Makes a Lot of Sense Most of the Time

Water is a necessity when it comes to agriculture. Just ask anyone who is along the Mekong River as it leaves China, the water doesn't flow most of the year any more, not at all, no water. Why? Well, drought issues, plus, China has put in tons of hydro-electric dams on the upper river. It's a major issue, not only for those who live along the river to fish, and need water to irrigate, but to drink also. Now they must dig wells, which is fine for a while.

This just underscores the future of agriculture around the world. And just because we live in abundance in the US doesn't mean we are not without risk. In fact, the Ogallala Aquifer is challenged due to the discharges for farming and city water to the point that eventually it could someday run dry. In some areas it already has, for instance along the WY - Nebraska borders.

What's the solution? Some believe that no-till farming is the solution or at least one of the solutions. Using these methods can more than half the water usage, sometimes up to 75% or more. No it's not the total answer, but it is definitely part of the solution. Not long ago, I was discussing this with an acquaintance and he asked if I'd heard of "No Till Farming," indeed, I had.

"Yes, I have watched Discovery Channel Specials on No-Till farming in the US, Africa, India, Australia, and South East Asia were ground water scarcity has reached super-drought levels, although it makes sense all the time in many places." One of the Newsletters I take is "TX H20" and involved the Baylor College and other universities working on these studies, really cutting edge stuff for West Texas, KS, Western Nebraska, South Eastern WY, Oklahoma (remember the dust bowl), etc.

They've had great success drastically cutting the water needs, maintaining soil moisture, you are right, it works! If you have a home garden, that is smart thinking to do this in your garden too. My acquaintance also mentioned the issues with soil compaction, which is another important point.

In the future, we are going to have to do more and maintain increasing crop yields, and we are going to have to attain this lofty goal using less water too. That means planting specially genetically modified crops which use less water and the altering of the way we farm. In fact, I hope you will look into this and get yourself educated on this important issue.

Introduction of Agriculture

The practice of agriculture is also known as "farming", while scientists, inventors and others devoted to improving farming methods and implements are also said to be betrothed in agriculture. The Agricultural Wages Board has been abolished in a guano cull announced by the sector for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Agriculture is the course of producing food, feed, fiber and many other desired products by the cultivation of certain plants and the raising of domesticated animals (livestock). Agriculture encompasses a wide variety of specialties and techniques, consisting ways to expand the lands suitable for plant rising, by digging water-channels and other forms of irrigation.

The suitability of these agriculture and environmental articles has been rated between 90-100 per cent by a large sample number drawn from various sections of the inhabitants who have used these articles. The system is based on eight principles which are different to usual rice cultivation.

These operations generally attempt to maximize financial income from grain, generate, or livestock. The move has angered Unite, which nominates eight of the board 21 representatives, and claims its call for a consultation on plans to scrap the organization was disregarded. Agriculture sometimes refers to subsistence agriculture, the production of sufficient food to meet just the needs of the farmer/agriculturalist and his/her family.

Modern agronomy, plant breeding, pesticides and fertilizers, and technological improvements have sharply increased yields from cultivation, and at the same time have caused widespread ecological harm and negative human health effects. The report More Rice with Less Water was released at a seminar held 3-5 October in India.

How to Build Hydroponic Systems

Hydroponic gardening has been around as a good way to enjoy gardening indoors, or if you do not have the luxury of space outdoors, you can actually go into hydroponics. Hydroponics is growing plants without the need for soil. In this setup, you only need to have water supplied with the necessary nutrients that will allow your plants to grow even without soil.

If you love gardening, you can learn how to build hydroponic systems and enjoy the hobby even if you are living in an urban or suburban location. Before you dive into the idea of setting up your hydroponics garden, learn a few things first to help you avoid costly mistakes later.

Get yourself a detailed step-by-step guide in setting up your hydroponics garden. You will need materials and you will spend on them, thus it is important that you know what you are doing right from the start.

To start learning how to build hydroponic systems, here are some of the things that you will find useful.

- Secure your materials. One downside to hydroponic gardening is the initial investment that you will need. Although you may need to spend at the start of the project, you will also reap its benefits for a long time.

Usually, when building a hydroponics garden, you may need a water hose, a plastic container or some PVC, air pump, airstone and a bucket. Depending on the type of hydroponic system you are planning to create, you will also need to have a guide to help you in determining what types of materials you will need.

- Check out your space. You may not need a space of soil to till but you will need space for you set-up, although it won't be something that is too big or too spacious.

- What you want to grow in your garden. Another thing that you have to keep in mind is the plant you want to grow in your hydroponics garden. Among the vegetables that are good in hydroponics garden are strawberries, cucumber, tomatoes, lettuce and many others. Herbs can also be grown in your hydroponics garden.

- Choose the right system for your budget, your space and the plants that you will grow. Among the easiest hydroponic systems are the drip and the wick system. If course, you can opt for others systems as well, but consider the costs and how easy or difficult it is to build.

- Make sure you also have the proper environment for your plants to grow. Although plants can thrive without soil in hydroponics, they still need sunlight to grow well and healthy. If you are looking for a space for your hydroponics, make sure also that your plants can receive a fair amount of sunlight.

Another simple but important tip in helping you put up your hydroponics is to pay careful attention to the dimensions when you are cutting. Especially with Styrofoam, you have to make sure you are cutting accurately and that you are not making a hydroponics system that can make your plants overcrowd when they grow up.

Are You Searching For an Hydroponic Book?

Have you been searching for the right Hydroponic Book that will teach you everything about Hydroponic gardening? There are many good Hydroponic books on the market now but as there is more choice it gets harder to see which ones are worth it and which ones are not. Of course the price is also a part of it. Most Hydroponic books give a lot of information about different systems that you can use. Different ways of growing your plants and vegetable and so on, but what it most of the time doesn't offer you, is a step by step instruction guide which you can apply in practice.

Why Growing Hydroponics in The First Place?

Hydroponic gardening is becoming increasingly more popular. This is not without a solid reason though. Some studies have shown that this way of growing vegetables can be healthier than growing vegetables on a soil base. Not only this stimulates the hydroponic gardening hype, also in the end it could save you a lot of money. We all know the vegetables are overpriced in the supermarkets. Can you imagine how it would be just growing them for yourself? You wouldn't even have to pay for the vegetables!

The reason why you are reading this article is because you are interested in this topic and searching for a good Hydroponics book. You might be an experienced gardener or a beginner who would love to set up your hydroponic garden, but hasn't come across the right book yet to get started.

The Hydroponic Garden Book is a Hydroponics Book that contains all the information above and a lot more. It will describe which system you can best use, whether you are planning to grow plants indoors or outside, it doesn't matter. The Book doesn't just focus on the advantages of hydroponics in a theoretical way. It combines a broad outlook with step-by-step instructions, handy checklists and solid "do this" information. Furthermore it provides you a great deal of information and tips for making hydroponic gardening part of your life that you will really enjoy. It's an honest, straightforward guide that will show you how to use this great and fun way of gardening to produce plants that will leave you with an open mouth, staring at the results!

Are You Searching For a Hydroponic Ebook?

Hydroponic gardening becomes increasingly popular and therefore more and more Hydroponic Ebooks are being created. This in turn makes it also harder to spot the best quality Ebooks.

Hydroponic gardening can have many benefits comparing to gardening with soil. First of all it gives less a mess. This makes indoor gardening a lot easier and cleaner as well. Another advantage to hydroponically grown produce is that it isn't grown in fields where exposure to disease causing bacteria from livestock can be a problem. Furthermore you can choose from a lot of different types of growing vegetables hydroponically. This way you can choose the option that is most comfortable to your home or garden. The different systems do work a bit differently but also this you can find in a good Ebook. Growing your vegetables hydroponically has also proven to be healthier, thus contain more vitamins than average vegetables grown in soil.

There are many advantages but you might wonder if there are also disadvantages.

There is a disadvantage if sterile conditions aren't maintained, the moist, humid environment used in hydroponics can be ideal for growth of bacteria. With hydroponics there's also little risk of exposure to run-off that can contaminate produce with bacteria and chemicals.

So are you someone who is a beginner or an experienced gardener who would like to try out hydroponic gardening then you are probably searching a good Hydroponic Ebook in order to learn each step of the activity. The problem is that many Ebooks only give information and not step by step instructions.

Botanicare Nutrients For Hydroponic Gardening

Botanicare is the name of a plant nutrient manufacturer that offers a full line of hydroponic nutrients with a focus on organic and bio-organic products. Hydroponic nutrients are plant foods that are formulated for use with plants that are grown hydroponically, using no soil. The Botanicare nutrients, which include Botanicare Cocogro, Botanicare Pure Blend and Botanicare Bloom, are typically mixed with water to create a nutrient solution that is applied the the roots of the plant. The selection of the appropriate plant nutrients is important, because the health and growth of the plant depend a great deal on the type of fertilizers you use.

Botanicare Cocogro was specially designed for use with coir soilless growing medium, which is commonly used for growing plants in hydroponic gardening situations; however, these Botanicare nutrients can also be used with most substrates besides coir. This special blend features high calcium levels, and features a 5-0.5-2 formula percentage. The first number refers to the percentage that nitrogen, a macro-nutrient that encourages plant foliage to grow strong, makes of the entire formula. The second number refers to phosphorus, which encourages the plant to bloom and grow large roots, and the third numeral is for potassium, which improves fruit quality and helps the plant fight diseases. Calcium is used by plants for strength in the stems and branches. Botanicare Cocogro provides the full spectrum of nutrients that your plants need for optimal growth, and the addition of chelates to the mix means that your plants will be better able to absorb all of the necessary micro-nutrients, also called trace elements, which include iron, manganese, zinc, boron, copper, chloride, and molybdenum.

Botanicare Hydroponics plant food includes the popular Botanicare Pure Blend with Bloom and Grow formulas. It is meant to supplement a standard hydroponic nutrient fertilizer, and helps your plants to produce lush vegetation, more and larger fruits and flowers, compact plants that grow fast and produce fruits and vegetables loaded with vitamins and sugars.

Botanicare Bloom, as part of the full Botanicare Hydroponics nutrients line, features 2-2-5 macro-nutrient percentages. What this means is that it is high in potassium, which helps to increase the numbers and size of flowers a plant will produce. It is a complete plant food that offers all of the macro- and micro-nutrients your plants will need for superior growth, plus when it is dissolved in water this Botanicare hydroponics nutrient will encourage the growth of beneficial microbes.

Whether you are growing ornamentals or vegetables, you will want to check out Botanicare Nutrients. Botanicare Nutrients can be found at better online discount hydroponic gardening supply sources.

Basic Indoor Hydroponic Gardening

Tell me about indoor hydroponics
Hydroponic gardening uses water, nutrients, and lighting. There are many different hydroponic systems, from ebb and flood to top-drip, aeroponics and more. You can choose from a variety of methods, but the basics still always apply. To begin we recommend getting a complete grow cabinet hydroponic system. The grow box, or cabinet system is an enclosed and fine-tuned environment designed specifically to grow plants. If you are interested in indoor gardening, you can't make a much sounder choice than a hydroponic grow cabinet.

These cabinets come with a variety of components, from lighting to fans, and obviously a hydroponic growing system. They are durable and easily movable so you never have to worry about it falling apart, and you can take it with you when you move. The high intensity lighting is like the sun, and comes in the correct wattage for the grow box. The hydroponic bucket or tray is your main source of feeding and can easily be switched out and cleaned. This contains only water and nutrients.

How do I start?

There are generally three stages in hydroponic gardening.

The first stage is the mother/clone area. Place your first few plants or heirloom mothers here. It's often a good idea to keep these in small soil containers if they will not be flowering. This area has fluorescent lighting conditions in the grow box. You want to take cuttings from your mother plants and use the clone area. Your clones will start small but quickly grow into large plants, while the mother can be trimmed back and re-potted.

The second stage is the vegetative stage, where your plants start growing bigger. They can remain in this stage until you deem them big enough, or until they mature a bit. This area also has its own fluorescent lighting system. The grow box has three different areas for growth and thus three lights for each.

The third and final phase is the flowering period. The small plants are put in the flowering area and go into either ebb and flow table or into top drip containers depending on your choice. The lighting in this area is made specifically for flowering plants and contains a more red spectrum which encourages flowering growth. As the next month or two passes you'll see the plants blossom with growth and change drastically.

Once the plants reach full maturity you can harvest them. This is the best part about an indoor grow, as you can continually harvest your favorites all year round.

Who to choose?
If you are interested in a grow closet or starting an indoor hydroponic grow, you should consider a complete grow closet first. Building your own space can be rewarding but often challenging, resulting in an amateur design that's not portable by any means. Supercloset is the most reputable dealer in grow closets, winning awards year after year for their innovative designs. Their closets come in all different sizes to fit anyone's needs. Feel free to check them out.