What is Regenerative Farming and How to Do It?

Regenerative farming is a holistic farming method that focuses on improving soil health, biodiversity, and the quality of water and air. Its main objective is to make the soil more fertile, save water, and restore the balance of nature. This method reduces the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides while promoting eco-friendly and sustainable farming.

Spread of Regenerative Farming

In India, the adoption of regenerative farming has just begun. States like Madhya Pradesh are implementing it, which reduces the need for irrigation and energy. Natural farming, such as ‘Subhash Palekar Natural Farming,’ is popular in this form, especially in Andhra Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh.

Relation Between Regenerative Farming and Natural Farming

If we see, natural farming is a part of regenerative farming, where instead of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, natural inputs like cow dung, cow urine, neem extract, and jeevamrit are used. This reduces farming costs and preserves the environment.

What Are Its Major Methods?

1. Cover Crop:

When your main crop is harvested, instead of leaving the field empty, immediately sow another small crop, such as moong, urad, or mustard, etc.
This crop keeps the soil covered, which prevents soil erosion, retains moisture, and improves soil strength.

2. Crop Diversity and Crop Rotation:

Do not grow the same crop in the same field every year. Grow different types of crops alternately. This reduces pests in the field, brings new nutrients into the soil, and lowers the risk of crop diseases.

3. Minimum Tillage:

Do as little deep plowing as possible or avoid it altogether. This maintains the soil structure, allows better water absorption, and preserves the good microbes and bacteria present in the soil.

4. Agroforestry (Planting Trees in the Field):

Plant trees and shrubs on the edges or within the field. Trees provide shade, protect from winds, give shelter to birds, and make the soil even more fertile.

5. Rotational Grazing of Animals:

Do not let your livestock (cows, buffaloes, goats) graze in the same place. Move them around different areas for grazing. This helps pastures regenerate, and the dung spreads evenly across the field, working as a good fertilizer.

6. Use of Natural Fertilizers:

Instead of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, use cow dung manure, vermicompost (earthworm compost), or organic fertilizers. This revitalizes the soil, reduces costs, and lowers dependency on expensive chemicals.

7. Long-lasting Crops:

Grow crops that last for many years once planted, such as mango, lemon, guava trees, or alfalfa grass. These crops bind the soil, don’t need frequent sowing, and provide shelter for animals and organisms.

By adopting all these methods together, the field will not remain barren or exhausted. The soil will become fertile and strong again, crops will be better, and nature will also support.