Natural farming is a method of agriculture that relies on natural inputs such as compost, cover crops, and crop rotation to maintain soil health and fertility. The word "natural" is pronounced /ˈnætʃərəl/ (NAT-shuh-ruhl) with stress on the first syllable and with the vowel in the second syllable like the schwa sound /ə/. The word "farming" is pronounced /ˈfɑrmɪŋ/ (FAHR-ming) with stress on the first syllable and with the final consonant pronounced as /ŋ/ like the "ng" sound in "sing". Together, the two words form "natural farming" /ˈnætʃərəl ˈfɑrmɪŋ/.
Natural farming is an agricultural method that emphasizes working in harmony with nature, minimizing human intervention, and promoting sustainability. It is a holistic approach to farming that aims to enhance and maintain the health of the soil, plants, animals, and ecosystems. Also referred to as "do-nothing farming" or "zero-input farming," natural farming revolves around the idea of allowing natural processes to dictate the growth and development of crops.
In natural farming, traditional farming techniques like tilling, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and synthetic additives are replaced with organic and ecological practices. These include the use of compost, green manure, microorganisms, and natural pest control methods. The focus is on building and maintaining healthy soil through techniques such as cover cropping, minimal tillage, and crop rotation. By fostering a balanced ecosystem, natural farming seeks to promote the overall resilience of the farm and reduce the need for external inputs.
At its core, natural farming seeks to imitate and work with the laws and patterns found in nature. It recognizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of all living organisms and aims to create a sustainable agricultural system that mimics natural ecosystems. By prioritizing biodiversity, soil health, and ecological balance, natural farming aims to produce abundant and nutritious crops while minimizing harm to the environment. It represents a shift away from conventional industrial agriculture towards a more regenerative and environmentally friendly approach to food production.
The word "natural farming" originated from the combination of two terms: "natural" and "farming".
The term "natural" comes from the Latin word "naturālis", which means "of nature" or "in accordance with nature". It is derived from the Latin noun "natura", meaning "birth, character, or constitution". In Old French, "naturel" referred to something that is inherent or essential to a thing's nature.
"Farming", on the other hand, is derived from the Old English word "feormian", which means "to provide food, nourish, or supply". It is related to the Old English noun "feorm", meaning "food or provisions".