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Organic Farming
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Organic Farming (OF)
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ISSN (online): 2297-6485
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2025: Vol. 11
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Organic Farming (OF) is a peer-reviewed open-access journal dedicated to advancing research in organic agriculture and sustainable food systems. The journal provides a forum for studies focused on soil and crop management, ecological pest and disease control, resource conservation, and biodiversity enhancement within organic farming systems. OF encourages interdisciplinary scholarship that examines food quality, certification and market development, agricultural policy, and the socio-economic dimensions of organic production. The journal supports contributions that combine scientific evidence with practical applications, fostering knowledge that strengthens environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and global food security. Committed to research integrity, rigorous peer-review, and timely dissemination of knowledge, OF is published quarterly by Acadlore, with issues released in March, June, September, and December.

  • Professional Editorial Standards - Every submission undergoes a rigorous and well-structured peer-review and editorial process, ensuring integrity, fairness, and adherence to the highest publication standards.

  • Efficient Publication - Streamlined review, editing, and production workflows enable the timely publication of accepted articles while ensuring scientific quality and reliability.

  • Gold Open Access - All articles are freely and immediately accessible worldwide, maximizing visibility, dissemination, and research impact.

Editor(s)-in-chief（1）
guangzhong luan
College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, China
qlgz@nwsuaf.edu.cn | website
Research interests: Grain and Oil Food Science; Structure–Function Relationships of Proteins; Processing Technologies for Plant Proteins and Traditional Soybean Products; Research and Development of Plant-Based Foods; Staple-Food Processing Research on Minor Cereals and Pulses; Key Technology Development for Gluten-Free Foods Based on Coarse Grains

Aims & Scope

Aims

Organic Farming (OF) is an international peer-reviewed open-access journal dedicated to advancing research on organic agriculture and sustainable food systems. The journal provides a platform for high-quality studies that address ecological production practices, soil and crop health, natural resource efficiency, and biodiversity enhancement in organic farming environments.

OF aims to foster interdisciplinary scholarship that integrates agronomy, ecology, food science, environmental management, and socio-economic analysis. The journal welcomes conceptual, experimental, and applied research exploring organic production technologies, ecological pest management, soil fertility regulation, climate-resilient farming, certification systems, and market development for organic products.

Through its commitment to combining scientific rigor with real-world agricultural relevance, OF promotes research that supports evidence-based organic practices and sustainable rural development. The journal particularly values contributions that introduce practical innovations, assessment tools, and policy insights to enhance environmental stewardship, food security, and societal well-being.

Key features of OF include:

  • A strong emphasis on organic agriculture and sustainable food system research across diverse agroecological contexts;

  • Support for interdisciplinary approaches integrating agronomy, environmental science, food studies, and socio-economic perspectives;

  • Encouragement of contributions that improve soil health, ecological pest control, resource conservation, and climate resilience;

  • Promotion of insights that strengthen food quality, certification standards, market accessibility, and sustainable rural livelihoods;

  • A commitment to rigorous peer-review standards, research integrity, and responsible dissemination of open-access knowledge.

Scope

OF's scope is broad and inclusive, covering all aspects of organic agriculture and sustainable food systems. The journal invites contributions that address a wide range of topics within this domain, including but not limited to:

  • Agroforestry Systems and Biodiversity Conservation: Investigating the integration of trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes to support biodiversity, enhance ecosystem services, and contribute to carbon sequestration. This approach not only promotes ecological balance but also improves the overall resilience of agricultural systems.

  • Sustainable Crop and Livestock Management: Research on innovative crop rotations, green manures, biological pest control, and sustainable livestock management practices aimed at improving soil health and reducing environmental impact. This includes the veterinary aspects of organic livestock production, ensuring animal health and welfare while minimizing the need and use of antibiotics.

  • Organic Food Quality and Processing: Studies focusing on methods that ensure the high nutritional value and safety of organic food, emphasizing minimal processing techniques to retain the original quality and nutritional value of the food.

  • Soil and Water Protection: Comprehensive research on organic farming practices that preserve soil integrity and water quality, including effective strategies for compost and manure management, nutrient cycling to minimize loss and pollution.

  • Circular Economy and Energy Production in Organic Production: Exploring waste reduction, resource recycling, energy efficiency, and self-sufficiency in energy through biomass energy production within the organic farming sector.

  • Policies, Certifications, and Consumer Acceptance: Evaluating the regulatory frameworks, certification processes, and market dynamics affecting the organic sector, especially how they impact consumer choices and industry standards.

  • Innovative Breeding Techniques for Organic Agriculture: Research on plant breeding and genetics tailored to the needs of organic farming, promoting crop diversity and resilience to adversities.

  • Ecosystem Services and Climate Resilience: Examining the role of organic farming in enhancing ecosystem services, mitigating climate change impacts, and fostering climate adaptability and resilience.

  • Social Aspects and Marketing of Organic Products: Analysis of social acceptance, consumer preferences, ethical considerations, and effective marketing strategies for organic products, ensuring market acceptance and growth.

  • Technological Advances in Organic Farming: Examination of the role of technology, including ICT, AI, and remote sensing, in improving organic farming practices and monitoring environmental impacts.

  • Urban Organic Farming and Food Systems: Investigating the development and integration of organic farming practices in urban areas to support local food systems and urban sustainability, promoting urban-rural interaction.

  • Global Organic Trade and Market Trends: Analysis of global trade dynamics, market trends, and the economic viability of organic farming, as well as how to adapt to changing international market demands.

  • Organic Farming and Rural Development: Exploring the impact of organic farming on rural communities, especially in terms of poverty alleviation, economic development, and social equity. This includes studying how organic farming can provide sustainable livelihoods for rural residents and enhance their economic resilience through improved production efficiency and market access.

  • Interdisciplinary Approaches to Organic Farming Research: Encouraging the use of interdisciplinary and cross-disciplinary approaches to address the complex challenges in organic farming, integrating knowledge and techniques from ecology, agricultural science, social science, economics, and more.

  • Regenerative Organic Agriculture: Research on regenerative organic practices that go beyond sustainability, actively improving soil health, biodiversity, and overall ecosystem resilience through more proactive approaches to restoring and enhancing the productive capacity of natural resources.

  • Organic Farming Policy and Advocacy: Evaluation of policy initiatives, advocacy strategies, and legislative frameworks that support the growth and development of organic agriculture worldwide, including how effective policy environments can be formed to promote the sustainable development and expansion of organic farming.

  • Education and Training in Organic Agriculture: Exploring the importance of education, training, and extension services in promoting organic farming practices among new and existing farmers, including how education and capacity building can improve farmers' understanding and application of organic farming techniques.

  • Tillage and No-Tillage Organic Farming Systems: Delving into the application of tillage and no-tillage management practices in organic farming, including how these methods affect soil health, crop yield, and ecosystem services.

  • Weed Ecology and Management: Researching the ecological characteristics of weeds in organic farming systems and their management strategies, exploring how to control weeds effectively through eco-friendly methods while maintaining or enhancing farmland biodiversity.

Articles
Recent Articles
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Open Access
Research article
Community-Based Waste Mapping in the Traditional Subak Irrigation Systems: Evidence from Penebel District in Bali, Indonesia
i ketut sardiana ,
putu perdana kusuma wiguna ,
anak agung ayu wulandira sawitri djelantik ,
ni made ari kusuma dewi
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Available online: 10-14-2025

Abstract

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The Subak is a traditional Balinese irrigation and farming management system rooted in socio-religious customs and ecological harmony. The sustainability of the Subak, however, is increasingly threatened by contamination from domestic, livestock, and small-scale industrial waste. This study assessed the types, sources, and practices of waste management in Penebel District in Bali with a participatory mapping approach involving surveys, field observations, and focus group discussions with farmers and local officials. Findings from 38 Subak irrigation systems revealed that 52.63% of the Subak areas were primarily affected by domestic waste while 21.05% faced mixed contamination from domestic and livestock waste. Among all, the predominant waste types included 44.74% of organic materials, such as manure and agricultural residues, and 34.21% of inorganic materials like plastics and packaging. Alarmingly, 57.89% of the Subaks left waste untreated in irrigation channels whereas 41.1% of the households disposed waste directly into drainage or irrigation ditches. Only a small portion, 21.06%, practiced composting. These informal waste practices were exacerbated by limited institutional support and deteriorated irrigation infrastructure, as 28.95% of the Subak irrigation channels were in damaged condition. In this connection, this study also shed light on the imperative for differentiated and community-based waste management strategies, aligned with the principles of organic farming. Recommended interventions included organic waste composting, structured inorganic waste collection, Awig-Awig revitalization, and environmental education to change local behaviors. The integration of participatory mapping with environmental assessment provided a practical and culturally relevant tool for empowering the Subak communities with sustainable waste and water management. Protecting the Subak landscape from waste is indispensable for safeguarding both agricultural productivity and unique cultural heritage in Bali.
Open Access
Research article
Forecasting Yield of Coffee Crop Varieties C×R, Sln3 and Sln5B: A Stochastic Machine Learning Model Based on Agro-Ecological Factors using Multivariate Feature Selection Approach
chandagalu shivalingaiah santhosh ,
kattekyathanahalli kalegowda umesh ,
venkatesh hemanth ,
khatri narendra
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Available online: 09-29-2025

Abstract

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Accurate forecasting of coffee crop yield is essential for enhancing agricultural decision-making, ensuring food security, and mitigating environmental risks. India cultivates both Arabica and Robusta across more than one hundred registered varieties. In this study, yield forecasts were developed for three representative varieties—C×R, Sln3, and Sln5B—using agro-ecological data collected from 2015 to 2022 at the Central Coffee Research Institute (CCRI), Coffee Research Station, Balehonnur, Karnataka, India. A stochastic machine learning framework was employed to identify and evaluate the most influential agro-ecological predictors through a multivariate feature selection approach coupled with correlation matrix analysis. Optimal predictors were organized into three distinct parameter groups, which were then used as inputs to four regression models: Extra Trees (ET), Gradient Boosting (GB), Random Forest (RF), and Decision Tree (DT). Independent testing revealed that the ET model consistently provided the highest accuracy. For C×R, yield was most accurately predicted using Group-1 parameters, such as coffee leaf rust (CLR), minimum temperature (Tmin), maximum temperature (Tmax), relative humidity (Rh), rainfall (Rf), organic carbon (OC), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), pH, plant spacing (Sp), and plant age (Ag), achieving a coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.98 with a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 8.61 kg ha⁻¹. For Sln3, Group-3 parameters, such as CLR, Tmin, Tmax, Rh, Rf, OC, P, K, pH, Ag, Sp, minimum sunshine hours (SSmin), maximum sunshine hours (SSmax), vapor (Vp), and dew point (Dp), produced an R² of 0.98 with an RMSE of 8.27 kg ha⁻¹, while for Sln5B, Group-3 parameters yielded an R² of 0.97 with an RMSE of 7.79 kg ha⁻¹. These results demonstrate the superiority of the ET algorithm compared with GB, RF, and DT models, which exhibited comparatively lower predictive accuracy. Simulation outcomes further revealed that age, rainfall, and the incidence of CLR were among the most decisive agro-ecological determinants of yield. These findings underscore the potential of stochastic machine learning models, particularly the ET model, for enhancing yield prediction and identifying agro-ecological drivers of coffee productivity.
Open Access
Review article
Determinants of Farmers’ Willingness to Adopt Organic Agriculture: Behavioural Insights and Systemic Challenges
gabriel adewunmi eyinade ,
abbyssinia mushunje ,
shehu folaranmi gbolahan yusuf
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Available online: 08-28-2025

Abstract

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The environmental and health-related challenges associated with intensive and conventional farming practices have underscored the urgency of transitioning towards more sustainable agricultural systems, such as organic farming. Degradation of soil quality, nutrient depletion, biodiversity loss, chemical exposure, and erosion have been widely attributed to prolonged conventional agricultural methods. The adoption of organic farming practices is therefore considered pivotal in addressing these ecological and public health concerns. However, the effectiveness of this transition is largely contingent on farmers’ willingness to adopt and sustain organic cultivation methods. In this context, A thorough examination of peer-reviewed literature was conducted to examine the behavioral drivers and systemic barriers influencing decisions by farmers to adopt organic farming. Special attention was given to the level knowledge and perception regarding organic practices, as well as theoretical models of technology adoption in agricultural contexts by the farmers. The findings indicate that perceived health benefits, environmental sustainability, and long-term economic viability are primary motivators of adoption. Conversely, constraints such as reduced yields, labor intensiveness, and certification complexity were identified as significant deterrents. Furthermore, a lack of awareness and limited technical knowledge regarding organic methods were shown to hinder adoption of organic farming practices. These insights highlight the need for coordinated interventions by policymakers, agricultural agencies, and industry stakeholders to facilitate the adoption process. Emphasis is recommended on expanding awareness campaigns concerning the environmental and health benefits of organic farming, enhancing access to training programmes, simplifying certification procedures, and reinforcing institutional support through well-structured extension services. Greater alignment between farmers’ perceived risks and the long-term benefits of organic agriculture is essential to achieving widespread and sustainable adoption.
Open Access
Research article
Rainfall Forecasting in Central Lombok Using an Enhanced Facebook Prophet Model with Multiplicative Seasonality
yuyun hidayat ,
budhi handoko ,
yosefina pradjanata
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Available online: 08-19-2025

Abstract

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Accurate rainfall forecasting remains critical for climate-sensitive agricultural planning, particularly in monsoon-driven regions where rice production is highly vulnerable to hydrometeorological variability. In this study, rainfall in Central Lombok Regency was forecasted using an enhanced version of the Facebook Prophet model incorporating a multiplicative seasonal component. Univariate monthly rainfall data (measured in millimeters) from January 1991 to July 2024 were utilized to train and evaluate the model. A configuration yielding optimal performance produced a Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of 18.08% on the testing set, with 80.19% of the forecasted values exhibiting an Absolute Percentage Error (APE) below 20%, indicating a high level of predictive reliability. Forecasting was conducted over a short-term horizon of nine 10-day periods (approximately three months). Analysis of the forecast outputs identified the transition period from the dry to the rainy season—early August to late October—as the most favorable window for initiating rice planting. By aligning planting schedules with anticipated rainfall patterns, the likelihood of crop failure can be mitigated, thereby enhancing productivity and supporting local food security. The findings underscore the practical utility of interpretable time series models in developing data-driven agricultural calendars and advancing climate-resilient farming practices. This approach is particularly relevant for tropical monsoon regions facing increasingly erratic rainfall due to climate change. Furthermore, the demonstrated integration of seasonality effects within the Prophet framework contributes methodologically to the broader field of agro-meteorological forecasting.

Abstract

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Modern high-input, intensive agricultural systems predominantly emphasize productivity and profitability at the expense of ecological balance. The Green Revolution, though instrumental in enhancing food security, relied heavily on mechanization, intensive cultivation, and high-yielding varieties, often compromising long-term sustainability. These practices have accelerated land use change and deforestation, leading to a substantial decline in soil organic matter (SOM), a reduction in terrestrial carbon sinks, and a rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. Under the increasing pressures of climate change—manifested in the form of drought, flooding, and pest outbreaks—the vulnerability of conventional farming systems has been exacerbated. In response to these challenges, regenerative organic agriculture (ROA) has been recognized as a holistic framework capable of restoring ecosystem functions, enhancing soil health, and supporting sustainable food production. This review synthesizes current research on ROA, with particular emphasis on practices that contribute to soil building and ecological regeneration. A meta-analysis of cover cropping practices across diverse soil types has demonstrated the potential to sequester soil organic carbon (SOC) between 0.32 and 16.70 Mg·ha⁻¹·yr⁻¹. Globally, an estimated SOC sequestration of 0.03 Pg·C·yr⁻¹ via cover crops could offset approximately 8% of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. The physical, chemical, and biological improvements to soil properties facilitated by ROA have been systematically examined. Traditional Vedic agricultural practices in India have also been revisited for their ecological relevance and compatibility with regenerative principles. Integrated farming systems combining leguminous crops, agroforestry, horticulture, pasture, and animal husbandry have been reviewed for their synergistic effects on biodiversity enhancement, nutrient cycling, and climate mitigation. Additionally, the transition to renewable energy sources, reliance on self-saved seeds, and minimization of external inputs have been underscored as key strategies for achieving farm-level self-sufficiency and ecological sustainability. This review synthesizes scientific findings and traditional knowledge to highlight ROA as a holistic solution for restoring soil function, conserving natural resources, and advancing sustainable agricultural development.

Open Access
Research article
The Collaborative Roles of Stakeholders in Advancing Sustainable Organic Rice Farming in Yogyakarta
triyono ,
nurwahyu alamsyah ,
widodo ,
erlyna wida riptanti ,
zuhud rozaki ,
mhd fauzi kamarudin ,
thania lintang jayanti ,
yunanto
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Available online: 08-10-2025

Abstract

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The roles of stakeholders in the development of sustainable organic rice farming in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, were investigated, along with the patterns of collaboration among them. The study was conducted in the Special Region of Yogyakarta through purposive sampling to identify key informants. A qualitative methodology was employed, utilizing data collection through structured observations and in-depth interviews. The data were analyzed using an interactive model combined with thematic analysis, involving iterative stages of data gathering, reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing. Stakeholder roles identified included those in education and socialization, technical mentoring, organic farming training, marketing facilitation, organic fertilizer production, organic rice production, policy formulation, scientific research contributions, and the establishment of association institutions. Collaborative linkages were identified among various actors, including academic institutions, business units, farmer groups, government bodies, and media organizations. Collaborative linkages were observed between academic institutions and business units, farmer groups, government agencies, and media organizations; business units and academic institutions; farmer groups and academic, business, governmental, and media stakeholders; government agencies and academic, business, farmer, and media sectors; and media organizations with academic, business, governmental, and farming communities. These findings underscore the complexity and significance of multi-stakeholder cooperation in advancing sustainable organic agriculture. Strengthening these collaborations is considered essential for the long-term success and resilience of organic farming initiatives in the region.

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Enhancing the productivity of forage crops while maintaining soil health remains a critical objective in sustainable agriculture. Excessive application of inorganic nitrogen (N) fertilizers, particularly urea, has contributed to soil degradation and environmental concerns, prompting the need for biologically sustainable alternatives. In this study, the effects of substituting urea with bioorganic fertilizer on soil quality and forage yield in an intercropping system of Pennisetum purpureum and Macroptilium atropurpureum were investigated. A randomized block design (RBD) was employed with six substitution treatments: no fertilizer (T), 0% substitution (S0), and 25% (S1), 50% (S2), 75% (S3), and 100% (S4) substitution of urea-N with bioorganic fertilizer. Each treatment was replicated four times, resulting in 24 experimental plots. Parameters evaluated included soil properties, populations of nitrogen-fixing bacteria (NFB) and phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria (PSB), and growth and biomass characteristics of the forage association. Substitution treatments significantly improved soil fertility indices. The highest soil organic carbon (SOC) (3.23%) was observed in S3, while total N content (Total N) in S2, S3, and S4 exceeded that of T and S0. Available phosphorus (P) was greatest in S3 and S4, and the highest cation exchange capacity (CEC) (24.08 me 100 g-1) was recorded in S4. The S2 and S3 treatments yielded the highest leaf dry weights (1.55 and 1.49 kg plot-1, respectively), stem dry weights (1.84 and 1.70 kg plot-1), and total dry forage weight (3.38 and 3.19 kg plot-1). Leaf-to-stem ratios and leaf areas in S2 and S3 were comparable to S0 and significantly greater than T. The lowest leaf area-to-total forage ratios (14.39 and 15.05 m² kg-1) were also observed in these treatments. It was demonstrated that 50% and 75% substitution levels of urea-N with bioorganic fertilizer not only enhanced soil quality parameters but also significantly increased forage productivity compared to exclusive urea application. These findings underscore the potential of bioorganic fertilizer as a sustainable alternative to inorganic N sources, contributing to improved soil health, higher forage yields, and more resilient agroecosystems.

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