“Regenerative” practices such as crop rotation, cover crops, conservation tillage and integrated pest management have been implemented, at some level, on many row crop farms for years.

I am an avid listener of several podcasts on many topics. I appreciate the diversity of people and topics that podcasters have on their respective shows. The UGA peanut podcast “All About the Pod” is a pretty awesome one.  

Sometime in the last several months, a few of my favorite podcasters have interviewed speakers addressing the concept of “regenerative agriculture.” Despite more than 42 years of working in production agriculture, I was a bit unsure of what that concept really meant. Generally, the take-home message that I heard from these specific podcasts was that this would be the only acceptable way to produce food in the future.     

The Noble Research Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to farm and ranch education, defines regenerative agriculture as “the process of restoring degraded soils using management practices,” such as adaptive grazing, no-till planting no or limited use of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, based on ecological principles. Someone put a ton of thought into that one, but there is much to unpack here. 

I have worked as a row crop county agent and Extension specialist in three separate areas of the U.S. for 33 years and am pretty sure that every farmer that I have worked with did not have a “degraded” soil. Every grower knows that soil health is paramount to success. All plant life begins there. Other “regenerative” practices such as crop rotation, cover crops, conservation tillage and integrated pest management (IPM) have been implemented, at some level, on many row crop farms for years.  

There are three things that concern me in regard to this particular definition of regenerative agriculture that many might not be thinking about. These include:  

• Increasing U.S. and world populations 

• Loss of productive farmland 

• Yield reductions associated with “organic or no pesticide” farming 

According to the Congressional Budget Office, the U.S. population is estimated to increase to 383 million by 2054. OurWorldinData.org is predicting the world population to increase to 9.81 billion by 2054. That’s a lot more mouths that farmers will have to feed.  

Recent USDA surveys clearly show that the amount of U.S. farmland is on the decline. This acreage reduction trend should be a great concern to all because of these projected increases in population. Where are we going to grow all this food? As far as I know, the Good Lord is not making any more land with the possible exception of Hawaii, which has active volcanoes to potentially add land overtime.  

A 2023 meta-analysis of 105 studies that compared organic and conventional farming indicated that the crop yields of organic farming were on average 18.4% lower than the yields of conventional farming. In the future, our country and world will need more food, not less. Limited weed management options that are acceptable for certified-organic production are one of several factors that can contribute to reduced yields in organic systems.  

It has been my experience that growers have three main goals in mind:  

• Make a decent living 

• Leave their farm and land in way better shape than when they got it 

• Pass it on to the next generation 

This would be my simple definition of “regenerative agriculture.” 

Nothing in this world, with the exception of my wife and best friend of 42 years, is perfect. For sure, production agriculture can always do better. But, just about every person that I know who lives and breathes agriculture every day is more than willing to have an open discussion about any new science-based pest management strategies that might be available for practical use.  

However, this discussion must also include the use of pesticides. If not, I fear that many folks might get hungry? I am hopeful that the podcasters that I regularly follow will consider talking about all sides of this important story. There is much common ground.  

The post Is regenerative agriculture about growing food without pesticides? appeared first on IPNN.

One of the most compelling reasons to choose aquaponics is its sustainability. As a closed system, this method uses much less water than traditional farming. A farmer shares tips on how to approach this production method.

Aquaponics presents a transformative solution for sustainable food production in a country where arable land and water are becoming increasingly scarce. By combining fish farming with soilless plant cultivation in a single, closed-loop system, aquaponics maximises resource efficiency while minimising environmental impact.

This farming method requires significantly less water than traditional agriculture, making it especially beneficial for communities grappling with limited access to irrigation. At the forefront of this innovative approach is MJ Nunes, an agriculturalist and the owner-director of Sable Creek Farms in Limpopo.

With a background in agricultural management and a passion for system design, Nunes has built a fully integrated aquaponics facility that prioritises energy efficiency, biological balance, and market-driven crop production. Nunes offers tips from extensive hands-on experience to unpack the core principles and practical strategies for building and operating a successful aquaponics system.

Understand why aquaponics works

One of the most compelling reasons to choose aquaponics is its sustainability. Due to it being a closed system, aquaponics uses significantly less water than traditional farming.

“It means we save about 95% water compared to traditional or other farming techniques,” Nunes says. Additionally, aquaponics is entirely organic. Farmers cannot use synthetic chemicals or pesticides because they would harm the fish in the system.

Key to the success of this configuration is filtration (e.g. radial flow or swirl filters) to remove solids and biological processes (biofilters) to convert ammonia into usable nitrates. This ensures nutrient availability for crops while protecting fish health.

“Each system includes four aquaculture tanks connected to six media beds and six deep water culture (DWC) rafts, all in the same loop. The solids are mechanically and biologically filtered before the water reaches the plants,” he explains.

Another unique benefit of the aquaponic system is its suitability for urban or small-scale farming, especially in water-scarce areas like South Africa.

Recognise the dual income potential

One of the major advantages of aquaponics is that it can produce two sources of income: fish and crops. “Your produce in aquaponics grows about two times faster and quicker than growing in the soil. Your turnaround time for your produce from seed to harvest is much quicker.”

While aquaponics systems can be costly to set up, Nunes notes that the investment is worth it in the long run due to reduced operating costs and high efficiency. Operating costs are much lower compared to conventional farming, especially for those growing organic produce.

“Aquaponics production cost is much lower than farming in soil. Your price for your organic produce doesn’t have to be sky high because it’s got the name organic.”

Stocking and feeding strategies

Sable Creek produces market-size tilapia, targeting 200g to 350g weights within a 7 to 8-month cycle. Tilapia, being hardy and temperature-tolerant, are ideal for South African climates.

“We run two different aquaponic systems – each one 1000 to 3000 litres per tank, depending on the age and size of fish. We have our own nursery system where we grow fry and juveniles to fingerlings, and then we grade them before placing them into our aquaponic systems,” he says.

By staggering fish ages and using a grading system, Nunes explains that this reduces in-tank competition and mortality. It also ensures steady nutrient output, which translates to consistent plant growth.

Choose the right crops

Nunes explains that some crops thrive in aquaponics systems more than others. For optimal results, focus on fast-growing, water-loving crops.

“Herbs do extremely well, lettuces do extremely well, tomatoes do extremely well, peppers do well, chillies do well in the system,” he says. Plant varieties are selected based on nutrient demand, growth rate, and market potential.

The use of media beds supports root crops and beneficial bacteria, while DWC rafts are ideal for lighter leafy greens like lettuce, basil, and rocket.

Monitoring and water quality management

Water chemistry is at the heart of system health in aquaponics. The pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and dissolved oxygen (DO) levels must be constantly monitored and balanced for both plant and fish requirements.

“If any value goes out of range, the entire system is affected,” says Nunes. To prevent disease and maintain productivity, the facility is designed with biosecurity protocols such as foot baths, mesh screening, and limited access to tanks.

Resource efficiency and power usage

In line with sustainability principles, Nunes highlights energy minimisation and system automation. “The whole system is designed to run on less than 2kWh per hour. We use variable speed pumps, gravity-assisted drainage, and off-grid options like solar aeration.”

These interventions make the system resilient to load shedding and reduce operational costs, a critical aspect for small-scale commercial viability.

Business and market integration

Nunes emphasises the importance of full traceability, compliance, and certification where required. He encourages aspiring aquaponics producers to plan for market access early.

“We harvest, wash, chill and deliver on the same day. This shortens the time to shelf, so retailers get fresher produce and it lasts longer for consumers.” He also stresses the importance of working within strict quality control frameworks.

“Our lettuce goes from field to chiller in under an hour, and we keep it at 2–5°C throughout the cold chain.” An aquaponic system is not only a production model but a system with room for research and further innovation, aimed at showcasing replicable technologies for urban and peri-urban farmers.

“The goal is to build a model that can be scaled up or down, with minimal environmental impact and maximum food output per square metre,” he says.

Biosecurity

Disease control is critical to maintaining healthy fish and crops. “Sanitation is a big thing. If I go to a fish farm today and go into my greenhouse again, I could be bringing something in through my shoes,” Nunes cautions.

He ensures every greenhouse is equipped with foot baths and sanitation areas, minimising risk. Viruses like tobacco mosaic can spread through human contact, which is why visitors who smoke must take precautions.

Embracing technology

Nunes recommends incorporating simple yet effective technologies to run efficient systems. To manage South Africa’s unreliable power supply, his systems include global system for mobile communication (GSM) units.

“If the power does go off after it’s changed over to our solar unit, it will then alert us through a proper alarm to tell us that the power is off.” Nunes is also developing a digital water parameter monitoring system, replacing manual test kits.

The post Aquaponics basics: Get your system thriving appeared first on IPNN.

In recent years, precision agriculture has gained prominence within the agricultural industry. This approach integrates artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven insights to revolutionize traditional farming methods. Precision agriculture is increasingly recognized for its role in modernizing farming practices, delivering numerous advantages, and advancing sustainability and efficiency.

Precision agriculture is fundamentally a comprehensive farming strategy that leverages advanced technologies to optimize various facets of crop production. Precision Agriculture Transform Farming with AI and data analysis to enhance crop productivity conserve resources and address environmental concerns.

The primary objective is to provide farmers with real-time information regarding soil conditions, climate patterns, crop health and other factors, for decision-making. Essentially precision farming empowers farmers to make accurate choices by leveraging data related to land, weather, crops and various other variables.

This empowers them to tailor their actions, encompassing irrigation, fertilization, and pest management, to meet the specific requirements of their crops. The result is improved productivity, reduced costs, and enhanced sustainability.

Continue reading to explore how precision agriculture harmonizes with nature to enable farmers to make more informed decisions and farm with unprecedented efficiency.

How Is Precision Agriculture Transforming Farming with AI and Data-Driven insights?

In precision agriculture, precision agriculture technologies such as AI, GPS, and data-driven insights are integrated for efficient farming. This approach improves the crop production through real-time information on soil conditions, climate, and crop health, empowering farmers to make accurate decisions. The result is enhanced productivity, reduced costs, and improved sustainability for the future of agriculture.

Application of Precision Agriculture

Precision agriculture optimizes farming practices using advanced technology. Its applications include VRT, GPS/GNSS tracking, remote sensing, and data analytics to enhance resource management, increase yields, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

1. Variable Rate Technology
   VRT allows farmers to adjust input application rates like fertilizers, pesticides, and seeds across fields based on soil variability, optimizing yields while reducing costs and environmental impact.
2. Remote Sensing Technologies
   RST such as satellites and drones, provide key data on crop health, moisture levels, and nutrient status. It helps farmers in informed decision-making for effective crop management.
3. Precision Irrigation systems
   PIS like drip irrigation, equipped with VRT, deliver water more efficiently based on factors like soil moisture and weather forecasts. This enhances water savings and crop yields.
4. Crop Monitoring and Management Software
   It integrates data from sensors, drones, and satellite imagery to monitor crop growth. Besides, it detects pests and diseases, and optimize management practices for timely interventions.
5. Data Analytics and Decision Support Systems
   It analyzes diverse data sources to make data-driven decisions on crop management, resource allocation, and risk mitigation, enhancing profitability and sustainability.

How Data Analytics Is Transforming Agriculture?

Data analytics is kind of like the superhero of modern farming, swooping in to change the game for traditional farming methods. It’s like giving farming a supercharged upgrade, and we call it “Precision agriculture” or “Smart farming.” This whole deal involves bringing in fancy tech and loads of information to lend a hand to farmers, researchers, and farm businesses. They’re all about making smarter choices and growing stuff in the slickest way possible.

Now picture this: instead of taking wild guesses, farmers can tap into data to know precisely what their crops and animals need. They’ve got these cool gadgets and computers that collect info from every corner of the farm. It’s like having a team of experts helping them figure out the best way to use stuff like water, fertilizer, and pesticides. In a nutshell, they’re leveling up their farming game.

Here’s how data analytics is transforming agriculture:

1. Data Collection and Insights: Utilizing sensors, satellites, and IoT devices, farmers gather real-time data on soil conditions, weather, and crop health, enabling informed decisions for better outcomes.
2. Predictive Analysis: Historical and current data are analyzed to predict crop yield, disease outbreaks, and market trends, aiding farmers in efficient planning and risk reduction.
3. Optimized Crop Management: Data analytics tailors irrigation, fertilization, and resource allocation based on soil health, optimizing yield while minimizing resource wastage.
4. Disease and Pest Control: Early detection via data analysis helps prevent disease spread. AI tools identify crop damage, guiding timely interventions for pest management.
5. Prescriptive Farming Solutions: Data-driven recommendations guide farmers on crop choices, resource application, and timing, enhancing overall operational efficiency and output.

How Can Data-Driven and Digital Agriculture Transform Agriculture and Food Systems?

Given the increasing need, for food and the urgency to embrace methods it is crucial to incorporate data-driven and digitalized techniques in agriculture. This shift is vital, in guaranteeing food security minimizing harm and enhancing agricultural efficiency. Let’s take a closer look at each of these aspects:

Global Food Demand and Sustainable Agriculture

The population of the world is steadily increasing, with projections suggesting that by 2050, it could reach approximately 9 to 10 billion by statista. This demographic growth places immense pressure on agriculture to produce more food.

At the time traditional farming methods faced obstacles due, to climate change depletion of resources and degradation of land. We are increasingly required to increase food production while also minimizing harm to the environment and ensuring sustainability, in the run.

Addressing Challenges through Data-Driven and Digital Agriculture

Data-driven and digital agriculture are like the tech-savvy wizards of the farming world. They use technology, data analysis, and the magic of connectivity to supercharge everything about farming and food production. Imagine bringing in high-tech stuff like precision agriculture, fancy sensors, Internet of Things (IoT) gadgets, and even artificial intelligence (AI) to make farming smarter and better. It’s like giving farming a turbo boost with all the latest tech tricks! The benefits include:

1. Precision Farming: Farmers can gather and analyse data about their fields’ specific conditions, including soil moisture, nutrient levels, and crop health. This information enables precise application of fertilizers, pesticides, and water, reducing waste and increasing yield.
2. Predictive Analytics: By analysing historical and real-time data, predictive models can forecast weather patterns, pest outbreaks, and disease occurrences. This enables farmers to take proactive measures to mitigate potential threats and optimize production.
3. Supply Chain Efficiency: Digital tools help streamline the supply chain by tracking products from farm to fork. This transparency enhances food safety, minimizes waste, and ensures better market access for farmers.
4. Decision Support Systems: Data-driven insights empower farmers to make informed decisions about crop rotation, planting times, and resource allocation, leading to improved productivity and resource management.

Fascinating Figures

• Did you know? A McKinsey study suggests that these fancy digital farming gizmos might give global agriculture a whopping $500 billion to $1.5 trillion boost each year by 2030.
• The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) spills the beans: precision farming could cut down production costs by about 10-20% and pump up yields by 10-15%.
• Here’s a gem from The World Bank: those cool digital farming tools can be a real game-changer for the little guys, the small-scale farmers. They’ll get easier access to info, markets, and even money stuff.

How Precision Agriculture Technologies, such as GPS, IoT, and Sensors, Are Revolutionizing Farming Practices

Precision Agriculture Technologies like GPS, IoT, and sensors are reshaping farming by employing data-driven methods that enhance productivity and sustainability.

These technologies collaborate to offer real-time monitoring and predictive analysis, enabling informed decisions. GPS accurately locates equipment and crop attributes, forming the foundation for data collection.

IoT connects devices through the internet, collecting diverse data like soil moisture, temperature, and crop health. Sensors capture environmental data, including weather and pH levels. The integration of these technologies unfolds as follows:

1. Data Collection: IoT sensors gather field data, transmitting it to a central database.
2. Geospatial Context: GPS assigns geographical coordinates to collected data, aiding spatial analysis.
3. Data Integration: Collected data from sensors and GPS merge in a central database, creating a holistic view.
4. Real-Time Monitoring: Farmers monitor factors like soil moisture and crop health in real time, enabling swift decisions on irrigation and pest control.
5. Decision Support Systems: User-friendly dashboards provide actionable insights, guiding planting, harvesting, and resource allocation.

AI in Agriculture

AI in agriculture uses AI technologies to improve farming practices. It has applications such as automation, predictive analytics, and disease detection. AI-powered robots can perform tasks like planting and harvesting, improving efficiency. Predictive analytics helps farmers make informed decisions on irrigation and pest control. AI algorithms can detect diseases in plants or animals through image analysis, enabling early action and reduced pesticide use. Overall, AI in agriculture increases productivity, optimizes resource allocation, and reduces environmental impact.

Apart from this, there are numerous benefits of AI in agriculture. Firstly, AI can help farmers reduce production costs by optimizing resource allocation and minimizing waste. By accurately predicting crop yield and quality, farmers can make better decisions about when to harvest and sell their produce, maximizing profits. Secondly, AI can contribute to sustainable farming practices. By efficiently monitoring and managing water usage, fertilizer application, and pesticide use, AI helps minimize environmental impact and reduce chemical usage, leading to more sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices.

Thirdly, AI can enhance food safety and security by quickly detecting and addressing disease outbreaks or pests. This allows farmers to take timely preventive measures, reducing crop losses and ensuring the availability of safe and healthy food for consumers.

ChatGPT and Precision Agriculture

ChatGPT is one of the most powerful tools in precision agriculture and can help farmers in a variety of ways.  Let’s take a look at some of the specific use cases where ChatGPT can assist farmers in their agricultural practices:

Monitoring Livestock Health

Livestock health is vital for farmers, and early detection of any health issues is crucial. ChatGPT can assist farmers by analysing symptoms and providing initial assessments of the health conditions of their animals. This early detection can help prevent disease transmission and improve the overall health of the livestock.

Market Analysis and Pricing

Having the right market insights is a big deal for farmers. It’s like having a compass in a vast field. ChatGPT can step in to gather and analyse market data, sort out trends, and give advice on what crops to grow, how to price them, and how to market them smartly. It’s like having a farming buddy who’s really good with numbers and knows the market like the back of their hand. They’ll look at things like past prices, how much stuff people want, and how markets go up and down. All this info helps farmers make savvy choices.

Benefits of AI in Agriculture

Increased efficiency: AI analyses data quickly, optimizing agricultural practices for higher yields, cost savings, and reduced resource wastage.

Precision farming: AI enables precision agriculture by applying resources like water, fertilizers, and pesticides, minimizing environmental impact and improving overall productivity.

Early detection and intervention: AI can detect anomalies, diseases, or crop stress, before they’re visible, allowing prompt action to prevent crop losses and minimize chemical use.  While AI presents several benefits in precision agriculture, it is important to address these challenges to ensure the effective and responsible use of AI technologies in the agricultural sector.

Challenges of AI in Agriculture

Data Quality and Availability: Accessing high-quality data can be challenging in some agricultural regions, limiting the effectiveness of AI models. Privacy concerns and data ownership also impact data availability for AI applications.

Integration with Existing Systems: Implementing AI solutions like ChatGPT into existing agricultural systems can be complex due to compatibility issues, cost barriers, and the need for specialized training.

User Trust and Understanding: Building trust in AI systems among farmers is crucial for widespread adoption. Farmers may require education and awareness about AI technologies to understand how it works.

The future of precision agriculture looks bright with advancements in AI and technology. Expect better disease prediction, pest control, and automated tasks like planting. This integration of technology and farming boosts sustainability, productivity, and helps farmers make smarter decisions. Despite challenges, precision agriculture offers solutions to revolutionize crop cultivation, ensuring food security for all.

How Precision Agriculture Will Answer Global Food Security in The Future

Here is an interesting story about a farmer named Jack. He used to farm the traditional way, relying on estimation and experimentation to manage his crops. He wasted a lot of water, fertilizer, and pesticide, and his yields were low and inconsistent. He was struggling to make ends meet and feed his family. Then he discovered precision agriculture. It was like a magic wand that transformed his farm into a high-tech wonderland.

He used drones, sensors, and GPS to monitor his fields and apply the right amount of resources at the right time and place. He used data analysis and weather forecasting to make smart decisions on crop management. He used technology to optimize his efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. He was surprised by the results: his crops grew faster and healthier which eventually resulted in a decrease in environmental impact. He felt like a superhero who could save the world from climate change & hunger.

Well, this is not a fairy tale; this is precision agriculture. It’s not just a buzzword; it’s a game-changer that can help us feed the world in the future without harming the planet. So, here’s how precision agriculture will impact global food security in the future:

1. Efficient Resource Allocation: Picture this – precision agriculture acts as a farming GPS, guiding farmers to manage their resources like water, fertilizers, and pesticides with laser-like precision. This means less waste and more bang for the buck.
2. Yield Maximization: Thanks to nifty tech toys like sensors, drones, and GPS, farmers get a super clear view of what’s happening in their fields. This intel lets them fine-tune stuff like watering, fertilizing, and pest-busting to score bigger harvests.
3. Reduced Environmental Impact: Precision agriculture isn’t just about boosting yields; it’s also a planet-friendly pal. By using resources like fertilizers, pesticides, and water only where and when they’re needed, we’re reducing nasty stuff like water pollution and soil wear and tear.
4. Data-Driven Decision Making: Think of precision agriculture as a farmer’s data butler. It collects info from sensors, satellites, and weather forecasts, serving up tasty insights. Armed with this knowledge, farmers can make savvy decisions about how to run the show, making farming even more effective.
5. Remote Monitoring and Management: Imagine being able to keep an eye on your farm even when you’re miles away. Precision agriculture lets farmers do just that. With sensors, drones, and cameras, they can spot pests, diseases, or irrigation hiccups in real time, swooping in to save the day.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the farming industry is experiencing a transformation through the use of AI and data-driven insights, in precision agriculture. By leveraging technologies farmers are able to optimize their operations increase productivity and minimize their impact.

AI-powered solutions enable real-time monitoring and analysis of crop health, soil conditions and weather patterns facilitating timely decision making. The integration of data-driven insights into farming practices helps maximize the use of resources like water, fertilizers and pesticides. This leads to sustainability and efficiency.

Additionally, precision agriculture promotes the transition, towards resilient methods of food production that benefit farmers, consumers and the environment as a whole.

The post Precision Agriculture: Transforming Farming with AI and Data-Driven Insights appeared first on IPNN.

Zimbabwe’s food security prospects have received a significant boost, with the government targeting a 340% increase in major crop production for the 2024/2025 summer season, a move set to enhance national self-sufficiency and rural livelihoods.

The update, presented during the first post-Cabinet press briefing of 2025 by the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr. Anxious Jongwe Masuka, highlighted that the Grain Marketing Board has enough reserves to sustain rural communities until the next harvest in April 2025.

The private sector has been instrumental in maintaining grain supply, importing a total of 1.35 million metric tonnes between April 2024 and February 2025, comprising 1.13 million metric tonnes of maize, 220,092 metric tonnes of wheat, and 374 metric tonnes of wheat flour.

The government has issued 1,021 maize import permits for a total of 5 million metric tonnes while closely monitoring stock levels, import prices, and supply sources to prevent arbitrage. The 2024/2025 Summer Season Plan aims to increase cereal production to 3.2 million metric tonnes, a substantial jump from the 744,000 metric tonnes recorded in the previous season, with overall major crop production expected to rise from 915,000 metric tonnes to over 4 million metric tonnes.

Preliminary data indicates that 99% of the targeted maize area has been planted, while the Zimbabwe Statistics-led Government-wide First Round Crops, Livestock, and Fisheries Assessment is being finalized to provide a more accurate picture of crop plantings. Under the Presidential Input Scheme, the farming sector has already surpassed its target, achieving 11.4 million plots against the projected 9.5 million plots, marking a 20% increase above target and a 16% rise from the 2023/2024 season’s 9.8 million plots.

Cotton farming has also expanded significantly, with the total planted area reaching 203,875 hectares, a 40% increase from the 145,265 hectares recorded in the previous season. Tobacco farming continues to grow, with 127,000 growers registered for the 2024/2025 season, reflecting a 10% rise compared to the same period last year, and 92% of these farmers participating under contract. The total planted area for tobacco stands at 132,851 hectares, a 16% increase from the previous season.

As part of the Tobacco Food Security Initiatives, tobacco merchants are supporting contracted farmers with maize and sorghum inputs, reinforcing the government’s broader agenda to enhance agricultural sustainability and ensure food security for all Zimbabweans.

The post Zimbabwe Targets 340% Surge in Crop Production as Government Strengthens Food Security Measures appeared first on IPNN.

By Gabriella Soto-Velez, NCAT Sustainable Agriculture Specialist

There are many different terms for the practices that incorporate trees into agricultural production: agroforestry, intercropping, permaculture, food forests, and now there’s a new kid on the block: syntropic agriculture. Syntropic agriculture is gaining attention in the regenerative and sustainable agriculture space. But what exactly is it, and how does it differ from other agroforestry methods?

A Time-Tested Practice with Modern Applications

Syntropic agriculture system in Haiti. Photo credit: Roger Geitzen.

Like most agroforestry systems, people have been practicing syntropic agriculture for thousands of years. Indigenous communities across the Amazon, West Africa, and Southeast Asia have long used successional agroforestry techniques to cultivate staple crops while regenerating soil health and boosting biodiversity. The Mayan civilization, for example, practiced forest gardening with a mix of fruit trees, nitrogen-fixing plants, and staple crops—a method that closely resembles modern syntropic principles.

The modern adaptation of syntropic agriculture is credited to Swiss farmer Ernst Götsch, who began researching and refining these methodologies in Brazil. After working for a Swiss company specializing in genetically modified crops, he questioned conventional agricultural approaches, stating, “Wouldn’t we achieve greater results if we sought ways of cultivation that favor the development of plants, rather than creating genotypes that support the bad conditions we impose on them?”

The Core Principles of Syntropic Agriculture

Syntropic agriculture is based on multi-strata planting, mimicking natural forest succession to increase biodiversity and yields while reducing external inputs over time. The term syntropy refers to a force that creates diversity, order, and life—in contrast to agricultural practices that deplete soils and ecosystems.

What makes syntropic agriculture particularly exciting is its rapid establishment and adaptability. Unlike many agroforestry systems that take years to become productive, syntropic agriculture allows for harvests in as little as three months. It can also be applied across various climates, from tropical to temperate regions. While each location presents its own challenges and advantages, the core principles remain the same:

• High-density planting to maximize biodiversity and productivity.
• Regular pruning to manage plant succession and promote vigorous growth.
• ‘Chop and drop’ mulching, where pruned biomass becomes ground cover to build organic matter and protect the soil.
• Livestock integration, particularly with poultry and ruminants, to enhance nutrient cycling and manage undergrowth.

Livestock Integration: Optional but Highly Beneficial

Some consider livestock integration to be an optional principle in syntropic systems. Not all farms can or want to have livestock. But livestock integration can greatly enhance soil structure and soil fertility. One way people integrate livestock into syntropic systems in subtropical and tropical climates is by planting Napier and Mombasa grasses along field edges, providing valuable forage. Farmers can use a cut-and-carry method or employ solar-powered movable electric fencing to allow rotational grazing while protecting young trees and crops. Chickens can play a role in pest management while depositing nutrient-rich manure, further enhancing nutrient cycling.

Building Farm Resilience Through Syntropic Design

Like all agroforestry systems, syntropic agriculture offers multiple benefits, including greater farm resilience, improved soil health, and enhanced biodiversity. By continuously adding organic matter through mulching, these systems help prevent erosion, reduce runoff, and build soil organic matter, ultimately strengthening the soil microbiome. While initial inputs of mulch and manure are necessary to establish the system, once it reaches equilibrium, it requires little to no external inputs, making it a self-sustaining model for producing food, fuel, and fodder.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to syntropic farming—each system is customized based on factors like climate, topography, sunlight, crop availability, and farmer needs. While implementing such a system may seem daunting, numerous online resources and in-person training opportunities are available to support farmers in the transition.

Get Started with Syntropic Agriculture

You don’t have to convert your entire farm at once—start small and experiment. Consider trying some of these practices on a small section of your land to get a feel for the system design, management, and benefits before expanding. This allows you to observe how syntropic agriculture works in your specific conditions and to make adjustments as needed.

For those eager to learn more, a Syntropic Agriculture Training will be held at ECHO Global Farms in Fort Myers, Florida, in July 2025. This training will cover the principles of syntropic farming, system design, implementation strategies, and hands-on techniques for managing agroforestry systems. To receive information about upcoming workshops like this, make sure you are subscribed to ATTRA’s Weekly Harvest e-newsletter.

If you’re considering implementing syntropic agriculture on your farm but aren’t sure where to start, reach out to NCAT’s agriculture specialists at askanag@ncat.org or call the ATTRA line at 1-800-346-9140. We can help you with system design, species selection, and management strategies, or point you toward additional resources. Take the first step toward a more regenerative and self-sustaining farm today!

The post How Syntropic Agriculture Restores Soil and Farms appeared first on IPNN.

Allison Lynch, Staff Writer

2 TYPES OF LIVESTOCK: While the cattle may seem like the only livestock in this field, there is another type of livestock just below the soil surface. Viewing soil microbes as “livestock” will help you care for the soil and better provide for your crop. One measure taken here to feed the soil microbes is maintaining a growing crop all year. Allison Lynch

Soil health has a direct impact on plant health, and caring for your soil first means the benefits of healthy soil can provide immediate effects to your crop. As Neal Kinsey, owner of Kinsey Agricultural Services, puts it, fertility required for the soil and plants are one and the same.

“The soil is the plant’s stomach,” he says. “And when we mess up the soil, we’re messing up digestion for the plant.”

Kinsey recommends viewing the organisms in your soil as “livestock” to help you focus on properly caring for and maintaining them. For example, he shares that an accurate depiction for very poor soil life in need of help could be one cow per acre when it comes to the inputs needed to care for the soil microbes. This simply makes it easier for you to view the soil as a living medium when making amendments and improving soil health.

Feed ‘the cow’

Caring for the “cows” in your soil may seem daunting, but there are some tips for success when it comes to improving soil health. Kinsey and RJ Rant, owner of Terraform Ag and Nutrilink Biosystems, share how you can feed your soils to in turn feed your plants:

Keep a growing crop. Including a cover crop in the off-season can improve soil microbe presence and microbe community structure. You are not able to grow the soil without growing a crop.

“A soil not growing anything is a soil dying,” Rant says. He adds that implementing crop rotation and cover crops will help you continue to improve soil health.

Move past sufficiency. Simply supplying enough nutrients to reach sufficiency levels will not help you feed and improve your soils, Rant shares. Getting past the “just enough” level of fertility will continue to develop soils rather than maintaining the current growing crop.

“If you go past sufficiency and have abundance, you can better drive photosynthesis,” Rant adds.

Correct all your soils. Don’t only focus on your problem soils when improving soil health. Kinsey says when you do that, another field can quickly become the problem. Rather, spend time learning more about how you can improve all your fields and soils, even if they do not present any issues in the short term.

“To maintain top yields, even the best soils at times need corrections,” Kinsey says.

Study nature. It can be easy to head online and look up how to improve your soil problems, but ultimately, you will learn more by doing. Test different practices and experiment with soil amendments until you see what pays off in your crops.

“How do you know what works?” Kinsey asks. “You do it yourself. You find out for yourself. And you don’t find out everything at once.” He adds that you should test things for at least three years before you judge whether it works or not.

Minimize disturbances. All disturbances will affect soil function, according to Rant. He shares that tillage events can be viewed as concussions. Over time, those events can build up and cause a chronic issue with soil fertility and, ultimately, plant performance.

“If you’re making a disturbance, have a good reason,” Rant adds.

Viewing soil as an ecosystem or thinking of soil microbes as your livestock will help you shift your focus to improving soil health and structure to care for your crops.

“It’s not just dirt, which is your sand, silt and clay,” Rant says. “It’s humus and living organisms, and it’s how those things are interacting constantly.”

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I focus on smallholder agriculture because most of the food in the region is generated by farms that are only a few acres or hectares in size. And, while African economies are diversifying, most Africans still depend on crops and livestock production for income.

Across the region there is a strong link between fighting hunger, poverty and improving productivity and incomes on smallholder farms. But we must be careful to avoid pursuing solutions that damage the broader ecosystem.

In my research, I have explored how farmer innovations and local knowledge can contribute to maintaining crop varieties, livestock, pollinators, soil micro-organisms and other variables essential for a sustainable agriculture system. What scientists call agriculture biodiversity or agrobiodiversity.

My work puts me firmly on the side of people who today advocate for an approach to food production that’s called “agroecology” or “environmental conservation.” This means a focus on farming methods that protect natural resources and vulnerable ecosystems while respecting local knowledge and customs.

At the same time, however, in certain contexts I do support approaches that are viewed as “wrong” to many contemporary advocates of agroecology. These include the use of certified, commercial seeds for improved crop varieties, fertilisers, and genetically modified crops.

Opposition by agroecologists is rooted in a mix of concerns. With certified seeds, there is wariness about the cost to farmers and the impact on the common practice of saving seeds from one season to the next. For fertilisers, the focus is on run-off caused by their excessive use in places like North America and Europe. Opposition to genetically modified crops involves unease with using genes from unrelated species to improve crops. In addition to this is the potentially higher price of modified varieties.

While this may seem contradictory to some, I know that agroecology and advanced farming practices can co-exist in Africa. Indeed, to ensure African farmers and food markets can thrive while protecting local ecosystems – especially as climate change presents a host of new food-related challenges —- they must co-exist.

In my view, supporters of agroecology who strongly oppose new inventions are sincere in their beliefs that they are advocating for the interests of Africa’s farmers and the preservation of vulnerable ecosystems. Unfortunately, if successful, such hardline positions will narrow the options available in ways that will be harmful to both.

Weighing up the options

The three issues that appear to be most contentious for certain advocates of agroecology: fertilisers, commercially produce improved seeds and genetically modified crops.

Let’s start with synthetic fertilisers. The main concerns with fertilisers are related to their misguided and excessive application. In some places, this has contributed to the degradation of freshwater and saltwater ecosystems. However, rather than an absolute ban on using them, I prefer strategies that consider their safe and, modest use.

There are many situations on African farms today where modest amounts of synthetic fertilisers – applied in combination with other sustainable soil management strategies, such as crop rotation and intercropping – will do more to restore degraded landscapes than cow or sheep manure alone.

For the farmers I’ve worked with, the manure from their livestock may be enough to fertilise the small garden outside their kitchen, but it won’t be nearly enough to fertilise entire farms. Particularly if they hope to grow enough food to sell.

Seed debates

Some agroecology advocates also firmly oppose commercial seeds in favour of those saved by farmers from season to season. There are concerns about the cost of new seeds to farmers and also that crop diversity will narrow as varieties, that farmers have planted for generations, will be lost.

Again, I look for evidence of outcomes, as do most farmers I encounter. Overall, the farmers I’ve worked with in Africa are radically practical and carefully evaluate their options. They will purchase a commercial seed if they see clear evidence that it is worth the investment. For instance, that it provides superior yields, or other qualities, while retaining the flavour and texture they and their customers prefer. If not, they will use seeds saved from previous years.

Expanding their options with commercial seeds can empower farmers. It helps them make choices that can help to improve both household income and sustainably boost production to meet consumer demands. These outcomes align with agroecological principles.

Genetically modified crops

When it comes to genetically modified crops, I focus on the traits they contain and the agroecological conditions where they are to be used. Again, context is critical. There are clearly contexts where genetically modified seeds —- once thoroughly tested to prove they are safe —- can be compatible with agroecology.

For example, varieties of maize, cotton and cowpea are now being developed for, and increasingly cultivated by, African farmers. The genetically modified traits are used to help address pests and other stresses, including drought. These crops undergo extensive trials and national regulatory reviews to assess their safety and consider their release to farmers for use.

New varieties of genetically modified maize and cowpea that can fight off destructive crop pests are especially attractive. They contain traits acquired from a safe, naturally occurring soil bacteria called Bacillus thuringiensis or Bt. It has also been used for decades as an organic crop protection spray. Incorporating Bt traits directly into the crop itself reduces the need to treat fields with expensive and, in some instances, potentially toxic pesticides that may result in huge problems for people and the environment from inappropriate use. In this context, the genetically modified seeds —- if affordable – could be the optimal choice from an agroecological perspective.

Bt cowpea was recently approved in Nigeria and Bt maize is being evaluated as an option for fighting destruction caused by the recent arrival of fall armyworm pests on the continent. Bt cotton is already grown in several countries in Africa where it offers higher yields and reduces the need for pesticides.

However, farmers in Burkina Faso are no longer growing Bt cotton due to concerns about the quality of the fibres produced by the variety available to them, though not its pest-fighting properties. These quality concerns point to the need to support local breeding efforts, as Nigeria is now doing with its Bt cotton varieties, as opposed to rejecting the technology itself.

No perfect solution

The difficult issues around Bt cotton production in Burkina Faso are evidence that there are no perfect solutions.

But we know the results of a lack of choices – where African farmers plant only the seeds from varieties they have been cultivating for decades and have limited options for maintain soil health and dealing with crop pests. It has contributed to a situation where crop yields have stagnated, lands are degraded of basic nutrients, consumers’ demands must be met with costly food imports. Those who depend on agriculture suffer high rates of poverty and hunger.

We also know from the experience of farmers in other countries about the pitfalls of an over-reliance on a small range of commercially produced crop varieties and unchecked use of fertilisers and pesticides.

But we will not overcome these challenges by narrowing the options for addressing them. Instead, we should be open to a wider range of practices and innovations.

For me that means embracing the core focus of agroecology – supporting environmentally sustainable food production that benefits local farmers, consumers and ecosystems – while avoiding the wholesale rejection of certain technologies that, in the right context, can be instrumental to achieving this critical goal.

By Ratemo Michieka

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December is a month to harvest winter crops and turn them into warming, hearty meals. As well as harvesting the likes of parsnips, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and more, it may be surprising to discover there are also vegetables to plant in December.

But it is too cold, snowy, and frosty for planting vegetables, I hear you say. That is true for outdoor plants, but by sowing vegetables indoors this month you can have harvests throughout the colder months or get early crops of some vegetables later in the season.

If you wonder what to plant in December, we reveal seven vegetables to plant this month along with tips for where and how to sow. I grew and harvested vegetables for restaurants year-round in kitchen gardens in the UK. I used greenhouses to plant over winter, however, many vegetables can be started on a bright windowsill.

Vegetables to plant in December

December may be too cold to sow seeds outdoors, but there is a good selection of vegetable seeds to start indoors to get ahead for next year. For additional heat and light levels this month, a heated propagator with LED lights can help you avoid leggy seedlings and have healthy vegetable seedlings to transplant in spring.

Here are a great selection of vegetables to plant in December:

1. Eggplant

They might be heat-loving plants and a typical summer crop, but eggplants have a long growing season and the benefit of sowing them early means an earlier crop.

As eggplants can take six months to go from sowing seeds to harvest time, the earlier you can start the better. Though this will only be possible in certain situations. For example, if you are growing them as part of your greenhouse planning, or live in a warmer climate, then you will be able to plant eggplants into their final position earlier – this makes a December sowing ideal for the earliest pickings of ripe eggplants.

Eggplant seeds will need lots of warmth to get them going as they like temperatures of 60-70°F for good germination. It would be an eggplant growing mistake to not give them supplemental heat to start them off. Sow them in individual pots or modules and keep the soil warm and moist.

You can see the range of eggplant seeds available at Burpee

2. Onions

Onions can be sown from seeds or sets, and there is an old adage that the best time to sow seeds is on Boxing Day. Starting the onion seeds in mid-winter means they can have a long growing season and are ready to be planted out as soon as the soil starts to warm come spring.

When growing onions from seeds, they should be sown lightly into modules and want temperatures of 50-60°F to germinate. Thin the seedlings that appear and keep the soil moist, before transplanting the onion seedlings into the vegetable garden after a period of hardening off in the spring.

3. Lettuce

Growing lettuce is usually associated with the summer months and salads on warm days. However, the crop can be sown year-round and it is possible to grow lettuce indoors throughout the winter.

You can grow lettuce in pots on a windowsill, in an unheated greenhouse, or a cold frame for a quick harvest of tasty leaves. Loose leaf lettuce types are ideal for growing indoors, while winter hardy salad leaves such as ‘Winter Gem’ or ‘Arctic King’ will grow happily in a cold greenhouse or cold frame during the colder winter months as they thrive at lower temperatures.

Fill containers with quality potting soil, such as this organic potting soil available at Amazon, and sow your lettuce seeds thinly on the surface. Cover with a thin layer of more soil or vermiculite, such as this one from Burpee, and place the container in a bright spot. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and the seeds should germinate quickly.

Lettuce Seeds – Fall & Winter Mix

See at True Leaf Market

A mix of lettuce seeds, containing the right varieties to survive the low light and low-temperature conditions of fall and winter and extend the salad season. It includes the likes of Danyelle, Flame, and Red Deer Tongue lettuce.

4. Chili peppers

Chili peppers have a long growing season and need lots of warmth to develop and fully ripen. It may seem early, but December is thought by many growers to be an ideal time to sow the seeds of the hottest types of chili peppers – including the likes of Carolina Reaper and Ghost Peppers – such as these Wicked Ghost F1 chili pepper seeds available at Walmart.

Starting the process of growing chili peppers early gives the fruit lots of time to develop their heat, and giving them the longest time possible to ripen is one surefire way to grow hotter peppers. As some chili varieties take three months or more to go from planting in their final position to the fruits being ready to pick, starting early can help ensure you have time to get a good harvest.

Start the chili seeds in a heated propagator at temperatures above 80˚F and use grow lights to give them the right levels of light they need to develop healthily. Germination can be slow with chilies and it may take a few weeks for the seedlings to show. Pot the seedlings up once they form their first few true leaves and continue to grow them somewhere warm.

5. Fava beans

Fava beans are a very cold hardy crop that can be planted in fall, winter, or spring, with earlier sowings providing earlier harvests in spring. If you have not yet sown the crop, there is an opportunity to plant fava beans in December.

Where you sow will depend on your climate and soil type. If you want to grow fava beans and live in an area with milder winters, you can plant the beans outdoors and start them under the protection of cloches or horticultural fleece. Those in colder climates, or who have heavy soil that sits very wet over winter, are best to start the fava beans in pots indoors to plant outside in spring.

Hardy types of fava beans are the most suitable for winter sowings, including the ‘Aquadulce’ variety that can withstand cold and germinate at temperatures as low as 42-50˚F. If you plant the seeds in December you should expect to harvest fava beans from May.

6. Mustards

Mustard greens may be an unknown crop for many, but they are fast-growing vegetables that can provide peppery leaves for salads or stir-fries throughout the winter and spring.

The cool-season vegetables can be grown on a windowsill or in a warm greenhouse in winter. Mustards come in various leaf colors and shapes and can be harvested as a cut-and-come-again crop.

Mustard greens can take 4-6 weeks from sowing to being ready to harvest. The leaves can be harvested as baby greens or full-size – but they get bitter if left to develop too long. Simply remove the larger leaves with a clean knife or scissors and allow the younger ones to develop. Alternatively, mustards make a good microgreen to grow and harvest as seedlings for a spicy garnish.

Sow mustard seeds thinly around a half-inch deep into pots or trays filled with a potting mix and they will germinate quickly at temperatures around 55-65°F. Pot up seedlings and plant them three inches apart into containers. Keep the plants consistently moist and start to harvest once the leaves reach a usable size, but do not remove more than a third of the plant at once.

Discover a range of mustard seeds to sow at Burpee.

7. Mint

OK, mint is not technically a vegetable – but it is a great plant to sow this month.

Mint can be sown throughout the year and a sowing of this herb in December can mean you have a crop of mint indoors to harvest throughout spring. There are several herbs that can be sown indoors in winter, not only can you have indoor herbs to harvest but the plants can then be transplanted out into the garden come late spring. As well as growing mint, you could sow dill, chives, or basil in a windowsill propagator in December.

You can get a wide variety of mint seeds, coming in many different flavors, and all are simple to sow. Scatter the seeds thinly on the top of moist compost and do not cover them. They want a good level of light and temperatures of around 60°F – artificial grow lights can be used to supplement the natural light.

The seedlings should grow quickly and you can start to harvest mint as soon as the leaves reach a usable size. Picking the herb will ensure the plant keeps producing more of the most flavorful young shoots. The plants can be potted up into containers to grow outside once the risk of frosts has passed, or can be planted into a herb garden – but make sure to contain mint as the plant can spread quickly.

See the range of mint plants and seeds available at Burpee

December may be considered a quiet time for gardening, but there are still jobs to add to any winter gardening checklist. As well as vegetables to plant in December, there are also flowers to sow in December and plants to prune in December. Heading out with tools to trim this month – in the right conditions – will help those shrubs and trees that need pruning to stay healthy and productive for next year.

By Drew Swainston in Advice

The post 7 vegetables to plant in December – you don’t even need a greenhouse to sow these crops over winter appeared first on IPNN.