Principles of Agroecology

Increasingly you are interested in principles of sustainable production of plants in the garden, whether they be ornamentals or edibles. Elements of this sustainable production include regenerating the soil through the use of composts and manures, protecting the soil from erosion and compaction, management of insects, diseases, and weeds through non-toxic means, attracting beneficial insects and wildlife for their beauty and ecological roles, combining plants to maximize space usage, and so forth. All of these principles of sustainable plant production are embodied in the principles of agroecology. Agroecology is the study of crop and plant production by using ecological or natural tools.

Think of it this way. When you go to a natural and pristine location, minimally affected by human-induced changes, you see great productivity and balance. The forest (for example) utilizes every inch of the soil and keeps it carefully covered to minimize erosion, it has no pest problems (except for sometimes accidentally-introduced exotic species), and is highly productive. It recycles its own fertility, creates its own organic matter, utilizes nearly all of the direct sunlight, and is highly sustainable—literally, it could sustain itself indefinitely. This is nature's way of gardening.

To the degree that we can copy the principles of nature's way of gardening, we can enjoy the same benefits of sustainability. I do not refer to planting the same species as in a forest (otherwise you would simply have more forest), but the same principles of sustainability. Many of these principles are highly adoptable into our yards and gardens, and to the degree that we utilize them, the greater the sustainability of our gardens and landscapes.

During the coming weeks we will be discussing many of these "agroecological" principles. They can be used for vegetables or flowers, on any scale, in myriad combinations, and will generate great benefits to your garden. Some of these principles that we will discuss and develop include the recycling of organic matter and improvement of soil fertility through composting; the management of crop pests through biodiversity, attracting beneficials with pollinator plants and "refugia"; utilizing different plant combinations such as strip cropping or intercropping; managing weeds through cover crops, mulches (natural and synthetic), and suppression; proper irrigation and watering management, and so forth. We look forward to learning with you as we delve into Nature's crop production toolbox together. There is always something to learn.

Here's to one of the best growing seasons you have ever experienced. Send your gardening questions to: info@meadowview.com and we'll do our best to assist you.

Meadow View Growers

34 years of growing for you

www.meadowview.com.

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