Handbook of Organic Farming & Compost Technology

Organic foods are grown naturally, meaning they are grown without the use of pesticides, artificial fertilizers and other manufactured additives. Livestock are reared without growth hormones and they are fed organic grains. Benefits of organic produce are innumerable. Organic farms are less damaging to the environment. They do not release harmful chemicals into the environment, they help sustain biodiversity rich ecosystems and they use less energy and produce less waste. Organic fruits and vegetables contain more antioxidants and have higher nutrient levels than conventional produce. Producing quality compost is the most important job on the organic farm. Organic growers greatly enhance the last part of the process by composting crop and other organic 'wastes' before the soil receives them. Well-made compost is the ideal soil-food. However, opinions differ on the relative importance of organic agriculture to sustainable agriculture and on how much research, education, and extension efforts on sustainable agriculture should be directed to organic agriculture. This publication provides an introduction to organic farming, food, fertiliser and agriculture focusing on natural organic matter, biodegradable and green waste recycling. An understanding about biotic material and biomass; organic horticulture and lawn management; organic gardening and forest gardening; green agriculture, biodynamic agriculture, farming and gardening association is created. This handbook also discusses organic farming, its history and methods, and importance of crop rotation. The main motivations, principles, economics and trade related to organic agriculture and food crop production are described in detail, including the growing trade in imported organic foods and baby products. The handbook also provides readers with the required knowledge needed towards formulating sustainable organic agriculture policies and best practices ultimately useful for building sustainable organic sectors, particularly in developing countries. The handbook also focuses on provisions in North America regarding organic farm regulation and food certification. The process of certification and standard setting of organic farming, agriculture and animal husbandry in Australia is also covered. An overview of India's national programme for organic production and its current status is also given. An overview of compost, composting process and compost technology is provided. Composting bins and systems, containers, equipment and techniques are described in brief. Home composting, composting toilet, vermin-composting and decompiculture are discussed. Elements and dimensions of organic fertiliser and eco-sanitation are described in detail. The handbook also makes a case towards adopting biological pest control and bio-pesticides.