Organic Farming

Organic Farming, 2023, Volume 9, Issue 1, Pages undefined: On-farm Validation of Coffea arabica and Aloe vera Extracts for Management of Seed-Borne Bacterial Leaf Spot Disease of Tomato

rehema e. mwaipopo — 05-18-2023

In Tanzania, seed infection by bacterial leaf spot (BLS) pathogen (Xanthomonas perforans) causes yield losses up to 45% in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.; Solanaceae family). Several studies have been conducted and wedged ecological organic agriculture (EOA) technologies (i.e., on botanicals/ biopesticides) which are significant to organic farmers in Tanzania. Nevertheless, these studies have been conducted in laboratory and greenhouse conditions, hence the technology cannot be disseminated to organic farmers for application before being validated. The current study was laid out as a 2x3 factorial experiment with five replications. Factor A was two common tomato cultivars “Rio grande” and “Malkia F1”, while factor B was seed treatment with three levels of crude plant extracts namely A. vera, C. arabica, and A. vera + C. arabica and untreated/control. To make the individual crude extracts, the roasted C. arabica beans powder (5g) and A. vera juice (5 ml) were mixed into 50 ml of clean water to get 10% weight/volume (w/v), respectively, while A. vera + C. arabica combination was obtain at a volume (ml) ratio (1:1). Tomato seeds were then soaked in 1 ml of the 10% w/v plant extracts for 12 hours, then air-dried for 1 hour before sowing. The highest efficacy against Xanthomonas perforans was obtained from a combination of extracts from A. vera + C. arabica at volume (ml) ratio (1:1) hence, recommended for seed treatment. Organic tomato farmers need to adopt seed treatment practices that ensure seedlings’ start-up and enhance crop growth and productivity. Although the results of validation comply with the recommendations from previous research findings, further study is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of plant extracts subject to seasonal variability among the production areas.

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Organic Farming, 2022, Volume 8, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Growth and Yield Responses of Leafy Vegetables Grown in Organic and Conventional Agriculture Systems

kripa dhakal — 12-15-2022

Several scientific reports indicate lower as well as higher relative yield stability in organic and conventional (chemical) agriculture systems. This study presents the results of on-farm trials conducted on leafy vegetables grown in organic and conventional management systems. Four leafy vegetables collard green (Brassica oleracea cv. acephala), kale (Brassica oleracea cv. sabellica), lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and swiss chard (Beta vulgaris L. cv. cicla) were grown in organic and conventionally managed plots in the spring 2018 and 2020. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Organic Program (NOP) standards were followed for cultural and management practices in organically managed experimental field plots. Synthetic chemical fertilizer was applied in the experimental field plots managed in the conventional production system. Data on plant height, leaf number and total fresh weight of leafy vegetables were measured at the end of the experiment. There was no difference in plant height and number of leaf count between the two production systems for all four crops. Collard was the tallest in the organic system in both years, kale in 2018 and collard in 2020 were tallest in the conventional system while lettuce was the shortest in both the production systems. In terms of leaf number, organic kale had the highest leaf number; however, all other crops have the same number of leaves. In organic production, lettuce fresh weight was significantly higher than the collard and similar to the rest of the crops. In conventional production, kale fresh weight was significantly higher followed by collard, swiss chard and lettuce. Moreover, lettuce fresh weight was significantly higher in organic than conventional system, no difference was recorded for swiss chard between two systems while collard and kale fresh weight was significantly higher in conventional than organic production. Our results suggest that the organic system can be a best choice for lettuce and conventional system is best choice for collard and kale.

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Organic Farming, 2022, Volume 8, Issue 1, Pages undefined: On-farm Research to Diversify Organic Farming Systems

moritz reckling — 06-13-2022

06-13-2022

Organic Farming, 2021, Volume 7, Issue 1, Pages undefined: A Proposal for Improving Organic Group Certification. Quantification of Internal Control Systems’ Performance and Sample Size Determination

albrecht benzing — 10-04-2021

Organic certification, especially for smallholders, often uses group certification procedures. An internal control system (ICS) visits all farmers, and then the external certification body (CB) inspects a sample to assess the ICS’ performance. Harmonised methods for measuring the ICS’ reliability are missing so far. Here, we define criteria of “ICS performance”, propose a new procedure for quantifying this performance and, based on this procedure, suggest that the sample size can be determined using classical statistical methods for survey sampling, instead of using the square root or a percentage of group size as in current practice.

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Organic Farming, 2020, Volume 6, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Carrying Capacity of Traditional Farming in South East England: A Case Study

paul lovatt smith — 07-15-2020

Traditional farming in South East (SE) England is presented as a highly-evolved form of sustainable farming. The carrying capacity of traditional farming on a 2.75 ha family smallholding in SE England is assessed from production data recorded over a period of 8 years. The key elements of the farming system were mixed farming (livestock, dairy, arable and horticultural), self-sufficiency in terms of inputs and organic principles. Ten types of food were produced with the aim to comprise all the elements of a balanced diet. The holding and farming system are described and an analysis of the food produced is presented, in terms of weight and energy content, for the years 2010 to 2017. An average carrying capacity of 0.64 people ha⁻1 was demonstrated on the basis of food energy content alone. Carrying capacity increased to 1.09 people ha⁻¹ when production was re-proportioned to align with the UK Government’s currently recommended balanced diet. The latter figure is similar to carrying capacity estimates, derived from national statistics, for the UK’s total farmland in the middle part of the 20^th Century but significantly lower than theoretical predictions of national carrying capacity.

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Organic Farming, 2020, Volume 6, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Modified ‘Stable Schools’ as a Consulting Tool for Organic Dairy Herds

verena k. hansmann — 05-11-2020

The aim of this study was to examine the opinions of farmers on a consulting project, which was established for organic dairy farms in Northern Germany involving different animal health experts who participated in the meetings. Furthermore, the properties of measures that are of decisive importance for implementation on the farms were identified to improve consultancy services for dairy farming. Once a year, the farmers met on a host-farm in one of three groups consisting of five to nine farms, a facilitator and an expert. At each meeting, a host-farm was visited and the analysed data of all participating farms of the previous year were presented to the group members. Each farmer had the possibility to report on success stories and issues concerning his herd. During discussions, the farmers first proposed mutual farm-specific measures for improving herd health and animal welfare. Afterwards, the expert named possible interventions and commented on the given measures of the farmers. All measures were noted by the facilitator. At the end of each meeting, each farmer could choose which of the given measures he wanted to implement. Open group-interviews as well as anonymous questionnaires for the farmers were used at the meetings in winter 2016/2017 to evaluate their perception of this consulting project and to determine which properties of measures were important for implementation on the farms. Based on the results of this study, the participating farmers were very positive towards this kind of consulting project. They favoured the participation of an expert during the meetings and the analysis of farm-specific data. Farmers mostly chose measures for implementation proposed by farmers and approved by the expert, followed by those proposed by the expert only. Measures were chosen when they were practical in the implementation, effective, efficient and took a low additional workload for implementation.

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Organic Farming, 2020, Volume 6, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Organic Farming in Bangladesh: To Pursue or not to Pursue? An Exploratory Study Based on Consumer Perception

rubaiya murshed — 04-27-2020

The development of organic agriculture in Bangladesh has been slow. According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (2018), approximately 12,000 farmers in Bangladesh produce organic crops on around 7,000 hectares of land. The transition from conventional to organic farming has been an issue of debate, especially in the context of developing nations such as Bangladesh. The debate stresses the urgency for the transition to preserve environment and health and to ensure a safe, sustainable and environmentally friendly food production system, but also emphasizes the pressure of maintaining food production for a large growing population. We focus on the debate in the context of Bangladesh, and question whether it is the proper time and stage in the development process to attempt the transition from conventional to organic food production systems. We ask why the organic rice market is not expanding in Bangladesh and explain the slow market growth through the two main factors of income constraint and lack of awareness among people about the environmental and health detriments of non-organic farming. The exploratory study finds that it is not mainly the lack of awareness but the income constraint that can be principally attributed to the slow expansion of the organic rice market in Bangladesh. Through exploring consumers’ awareness about organic farming methods and their demand for organic products, this study shows how income as a major constraint, besides price, affects consumers demand for organic and non-organic rice in Bangladesh. Income being identified as the major barrier reveals the potential of the organic rice market to grow in the future, as Bangladesh continues its journey towards becoming a middle-income country.

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Organic Farming, 2019, Volume 5, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Effects of Field and Greenhouse Solarization on Soil Microbiota and Weed Seeds in the Northeast USA

sonja k. birthisel — 12-29-2019

Soil solarization using clear plastic is a promising weed management strategy for organic farms in the Northeast USA. Based on grower concerns that the practice might negatively affect beneficial soil microbiota, we conducted experiments to measure the effects of 2 and 4 weeks of solarization in a field and a closed greenhouse. Soil microbial communities were assayed by dilution plating on semi-selective agar media. Populations of general bacteria, general fungi, bacilli, and florescent pseudomonads were unaffected by field solarization, but fluorescent pseudomonads were reduced following greenhouse solarization. At plastic removal, soil biological activity was reduced non-significantly in the field and by 45% in the greenhouse. Soil biological activity fluctuated following field solarization, being significantly suppressed at 5 but not 14 days after plastic removal. In the greenhouse, biological activity remained suppressed up to 28 days after plastic removal. Solarization increased available nitrogen in the field and greenhouse. Four weeks of solarization reduced viability of buried weed seeds by 64% in the field and 98% in the greenhouse, indicating that the practice can cause substantial weed seed mortality. Maximum soil temperatures, measured at 10 cm depth under solarization, were 44${ }^{\circ} \mathrm{C}$ in the field and 50${ }^{\circ} \mathrm{C}$ in the greenhouse; temperatures were theoretically sufficient for the reduction of some soil borne pathogens. A subsequent experiment measured the effects of solarization and tarping (black plastic) on soil biological activity. During mulching, biological activity was unaffected by treatment, but 14 days after plastic removal, biological activity was reduced in the solarized treatment as compared with the control. Overall, these results suggest that solarization can deplete the weed seedbank. Although soil biological activity was reduced by solarization, it may bounce back after a period. Greenhouse solarization achieved higher temperatures and was more lethal to weed seeds and some microbiota than field solarization.

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Organic Farming, 2019, Volume 5, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Trials Evaluating Solarization and Tarping for Improved Stale Seedbed Preparation in the Northeast USA

sonja k. birthisel — 12-29-2019

Stale seedbeds are commonly used by organic vegetable farmers to reduce in-season weed density. The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of soil solarization (clear plastic) with subsequent flaming for stale seedbed preparation. A secondary objective was to compare the efficacy of solarization with tarping (black plastic). Solarization is an established weed management practice in warmer climates, but its efficacy in the humid continental Northeast USA was unknown. We hypothesized that solarization during May-June in Maine, USA would increase weed emergence, and could thereby contribute to depletion of the germinable weed seedbank and, with subsequent flaming, creation of an improved stale seedbed. We expected that firming soil with a roller prior to solarization would further increase weed emergence. Across four site-years of replicated field experiments and two on-farm trials we found that, contrary to expectations, 2 weeks of solarization reduced apparent weed emergence (density) in comparison to nonsolarized controls by 83% during treatment, and 78% after 2 weeks of observation following plastic removal and flaming. Rolling did not significantly affect weed density. Soil temperatures were elevated in solarized plots, reaching a maximum of 47${ }^{\circ} \mathrm{C}$ at 5 cm soil depth, compared to 38${ }^{\circ} \mathrm{C}$ in controls. Weed community analyses suggested that solarization might act as an ecological filter limiting some species. Addressing our secondary objective, two replicated field experiments compared the efficacy of solarization with tarping applied for periods of 2, 4, and 6 weeks beginning in July. Across treatment durations, solarization was more effective than tarping in one site-year, but tarping outperformed solarization in the other; this discrepancy may be explained by differences in weed species and soil temperatures between experiments. Overall, solarization and tarping are promising stale seedbed preparation methods for humid continental climates, but more work is needed to compare their relative efficacy.

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Organic Farming, 2019, Volume 5, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Questioning Seeding Rates and its Influence on Phenotypic Expression of Wheat Populations for Participatory Plant Breeding—First Findings from Field Research across Organic Farms in Belgium and the Netherlands

sofia baltazar — 10-01-2019

In Belgium and The Netherlands, bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is getting attention within a growing movement looking for more sustainability of wheat cropping and breadmaking. The few varieties available are pure lines that do not match the wide range of environments and organic farming practices, so that yields and milling quality are often disappointing. Composite Cross Populations (CCP) have been created with the idea of evolutionary plant breeding through on-farm mass selection and seed saving. In 2015–2016, one such CCP of winter wheat was cropped side by side with a pure line variety in four organic farms with different wheat cropping practices, as a first step to answer some of the concerns arising from farmers’ networks we work with. Seeding rates ranged from the standard high to the very low ones practiced under the System of Wheat Intensification (SWI). Multivariate data analysis confirmed greater differentiation of the CCP both compared with pure line varieties and within populations on farms where inter-plant competition was less intense. Low seeding rates thus seem to enhance the phenotypic expression potential of a CCP, yet this is a neglected fact among participatory plant breeders. Since both CCP and SWI have great potential for ecological intensification within organic farming, we argue that more work is needed on finding new ways of combining innovation in farming practices and on-farm plant breeding, which also implies new ways of organising research.

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Organic Farming, 2019, Volume 5, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Tillage System Comparison in Organic Farming: Effects on N Mineralization, Soil Microbial Biomass, and Yield

meike grosse — 09-15-2019

The nitrogen supply can be a yield-limiting factor in organic farming, especially when reduced tillage is applied. An organic field experiment was conducted from 2007 to 2013 to analyse the potential of the nitrogen supply through the efficient use of green manure crops in different tillage systems. Three farming systems were compared: a stubble cleaner system (SC) and a plough system (PL), both in a cereal-based crop rotation, and another plough system in a crop rotation that included alfalfa grass ley (PLALF). In the fifth year of the experiment, the experimental design was extended into a split plot design, and seven green manure treatments (Lolium perenne, Phacelia tanacetifolia, Sinapis alba, a mixture of Sinapis alba and Trifolium resupinatum, Trifolium resupinatum, Vicia sativa, and bare fallow as the control) were integrated into each of the three systems. The effects of the three systems and the green manure treatments on N mineralization, the soil microbial biomass and the yield of the main crops of oats and field beans in the sixth and seventh years of the experiment were analysed. The results showed that the choice of green manure species was of minor importance in the PLALF system. This system generally successfully supplied N to the oats with oat yields from 3.6 to 5.1 t per ha.Vicia sativa was the most promising green manure crop in the SC and PL systems, with the $\mathrm{N}_{\min }$ values and oat yields (4.0 and 4.6 t per ha) being similar to those in the PLALF system. In the subsequent year, the PLALF system again was more successful in most of the $\mathrm{N}_{\min }$ assessments than the PL and SC systems, which often had rather similar results. In addition, a main crop of field beans was able to compensate for the differences in the Nmin content, and the yields were similar in all three systems (3.1 to 3.7 t per ha). The microbial biomass in the top soil was significantly increased in the reduced tillage system compared to the plough systems. In conclusion, reduced tillage in organic farming can promote soil microorganisms and be competitive if the nitrogen supply is improved through the efficient use of green manure or an adequate leguminous main crop.

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Organic Farming, 2019, Volume 5, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Fermented Leaf Fertilizers—Principles and Preparation

roland ebel — 08-05-2019

Fermented leaf fertilizers (FLF) are made of anaerobically fermented plant and/or animal resources and principally used for foliar plant nutrition, as they provide a quick nutrient supply, especially of micronutrients. Their use is most common in horticultural production as a complementary measure to organic basal fertilization in the case of nutrient deficiencies. Since FLF are commonly made of farm residues, their formulation varies according to the available resources and the treated crops. The most common raw materials are cattle manure, cow milk, cane molasses, and water. Within Latin America, the production of FLF is popular with smallholders. Most of these farmers produce them on-farm using adapted plastic barrels as fermenters. Industrial production is conceivable. FLF have been successfully tested in banana, bean, broccoli, carrot, cucumber, lettuce, maize, papaya, and spinach production. This review highlights the principles of this sustainable and promising organic fertilization strategy, emphasizing the preparation of FLF.

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Organic Farming, 2019, Volume 5, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Comparative Harvest Efficiency of Soybeans between Cropping Systems Affected by First Pod Height and Plant Length

mareike beikufner — 04-09-2019

Today, the demand for soybean for feed industry and food production in Germany is met by imports from South and North America. Soybean cultivation in Germany, although challenging, will be of interest in the future due to an increasing demand for non-genetically modified (NGM) soybeans. To meet this rising demand for NGM soybeans and to increase resource use efficiency there is a need to reduce soybean harvest losses arising from harvesting with combine harvester. The height of the first pod can be a major factor affecting harvest losses, especially when it is not possible to maintain a sufficiently low cutting height. From 2011 to 2013, six soybean varieties were cultivated using two cropping systems (conventional ‘CON’ and organic ‘ORG’) at the Osnabruck University of Applied Sciences in a randomized block design with four replications to investigate the effect of first pod height and plant length on harvest losses and the effect of the cropping system on these parameters. Before harvesting with an experimental harvester, 1.5 m²per plot were harvested manually as a reference. First pod height, number of pods per plant and plant length were determined on 10 plants per plot. Over the three years of the study, the first pod height (10.4 cm) and plant length (81.4 cm) were on average higher under conventional conditions compared to organic cultivation (7.3 cm; 60.9 cm). On average, lower harvest losses (25.6% vs. 39.2%) and higher grain yields (20.8 dt ha⁻¹ vs. 16.9 dt ha⁻¹) were also observed under conventional cultivation. Varieties differed significantly in grain yield, first pod height and plant length. A high first pod height was related to a longer plant length and lower harvest losses at both sites. However, a high first pod height and a high plant length did not lead to higher grain yields on any of the plots. These results indicate that harvest efficiency can be improved by choosing varieties with long plant lengths if it is not possible to maintain a low cutting height when harvesting with a combine harvester.

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Organic Farming, 2019, Volume 5, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Unbiased but Not Neutral

thomas f. doring — 04-08-2019

04-08-2019

Organic Farming, 2018, Volume 4, Issue 1, Pages undefined: A Review of ‘Nutrition and Feeding of Organic Poultry 2nd Edition’

r blair — 12-02-2018

12-02-2018

Organic Farming, 2018, Volume 4, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Labour Use on Organic Farms: a Review of Research since 2000

stefano orsini — 06-21-2018

Organic farming is frequently associated with claims of more labour requirements than conventional. However, there is a fragmented knowledge about labour use on organic farms in terms of workload, nature and quality of employment provided. In the context of a growing organic demand and a need for more farmers to convert to reach policy targets set by many EU governments, it seems crucial to understand labour trends on organic farms and to what extent labour requirements may hinder the adoption of the organic methods. This paper presents a review of mainly European literature published since 2000. Studies presenting results by farm type usually indicate higher labour use per hectare on organic than conventional arable farms, whereas similar or lower labour use is reported on organic livestock farms, and the results are mixed for other farm types. We have identified in the existing literature two broad dimensions directly related with labour use, which need to be considered in comparative studies, namely farm structure (including farm type, but also farm size and diversification activities), and technical efficiency. These two broad dimensions give us insights into some more specific factors affecting labour use, and how labour is related with productivity and technical efficiency. Overall it appears that claims that labour requirements represent a concrete obstacle to the adoption of the organic methods need to be treated with caution, and more research is needed to understand the role of labour in farmers’ decision to convert to organic farming. The review of the nature and quality of employment indicates positive health effects related to higher satisfaction and lower exposure to pesticides in organic agriculture as the most important advantages for farm workers. Overall, there is limited research on whether the organic sector provides better opportunities in terms of job prospects, wages and employment of women.

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Organic Farming, 2018, Volume 4, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Novel Plant Protection Regulation: New Perspectives for Organic Production

patrice a. marchand — 05-16-2018

So called ‘active substances’ (A.S.) which are allowed in organic production are regularly criticized for different reasons. Previously, although permitted in organic farming, some substances were not approved under EU general plant protection products regulations; they were removed due to their toxicity or other characteristics (persistence, broad spectrum). Recent approbations under different new Articles of the EC regulation 1107/2009 gave rise to substances granted without maximum residue limits. We have previously described ‘approved basic substance’ (Art. 23) as potential candidates for organic farming; here we describe low-risk substances (Art. 22) as new implements for substitution of controversial organic biopesticides and consequently as candidates for substitution (Art. 24).

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Organic Farming, 2018, Volume 4, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Research into Practice—Promoting Participation, Perseverance and Publications

thomas f. doring — 05-15-2018

05-15-2018

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Organic Farming, 2017, Volume 3, Issue 1, Pages undefined: The Use of Copper Pesticides in Germany and the Search for Minimization and Replacement Strategies

stefan kuhne — 12-20-2017

Copper pesticides used to control fungal and bacterial diseases such as grapes downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola), downy mildew of hops (Pseudoperonospora humili), apple scab (Venturia spp.), fireblight (Erwinia amylovora) and potato late blight (Phytophthora infestans), play an important role in plant protection. In a 2013 survey of copper application in Germany we found, that while the amounts of copper used per hectare in conventional grape (0.8 kg ha^-1), hop (1.7 kg ha^-1) and potato-farming (0.8 kg ha^-1) were well below those used in organic farming (2.3, 2.6 and 1.4 kg ha^-1, respectively), they were nearly identical to those used in apple growing (1.4 kg ha^-1). Due to the smaller farming area, only 24% (26.5 tonnes) of the total amount of copper was applied in organic farming compared to 76% (84.8 tonnes) in conventional farming. Since 2001, the Federal Agency for Agriculture and Food (BLE) promoted a copper research and minimization strategy which was funded with a total of C10.2 million. Our status quo analysis of research in this field shows that some progress is being made concerning alternative compounds, resistant varieties and decision support systems. However, it also shows that new approaches are not yet able to replace copper pesticides completely, especially in organic farming. In integrated pest management, copper preparations are important for the necessary active substance rotation and successful resistance management. The availability of such products is often essential for organic grapes, hops and fruit production and for extending the organic farming of these crops. We conclude that the complete elimination of copper pesticides is not yet practicable in organic farming as the production of several organic crops would become unprofitable and may lead to organic farmers reverting to conventional production. Several existing copper reduction strategies were, however, identified, and some, like modified forecast models adapted to organic farming, varieties more resistant to fungal diseases and new alternative products, already contribute to copper minimization in German agriculture.

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Organic Farming, 2017, Volume 3, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Weeds in Organic Fertility-Building Leys: Aspects of Species Richness and Weed Management

thomas f. doring — 11-30-2017

Legume-based leys (perennial sod crops) are an important component of fertility management in organic rotations in many parts of Europe. Despite their importance, however, relatively little is known about how these leys affect weed communities or how the specific composition of leys may contribute to weed management. To determine whether the choice of plant species in the ley affects weeds, we conducted replicated field trials at six locations in the UK over 24 months, measuring weed cover and biomass in plots sown with monocultures of 12 legume and 4 grass species, and in plots sown with a mixture of 10 legume species and 4 grass species. Additionally, we monitored weed communities in leys on 21 organic farms across the UK either sown with a mixture of the project species or the farmers’ own species mix. In total, 63 weed species were found on the farms, with the annuals Stellaria media, Sonchus arvensis, and Veronica persica being the most frequent species in the first year after establishment of the ley, while Stellaria media and the two perennials Ranunculus repens and Taraxacum officinale dominated the weed spectrum in the second year. Our study shows that organic leys constitute an important element of farm biodiversity. In both replicated and on-farm trials, weed cover and species richness were significantly lower in the second year than in the first, owing to lower presence of annual weeds in year two. In monocultures, meadow pea (Lathyrus pratensis) was a poor competitor against weeds, and a significant increase in the proportion of weed biomass was observed over time, due to poor recovery of meadow pea after mowing. For red clover (Trifolium pratense), we observed the lowest proportion of weed biomass in total biomass among the tested legume species. Crop biomass and weed biomass were negatively correlated across species. Residuals from the linear regression between crop biomass and weed biomass indicated that at similar levels of crop biomass, grasses had lower weed levels than legumes. We conclude that choice of crop species is an important tool for weed management in leys.

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Organic Farming, 2017, Volume 3, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Evolutionary Effects on Morphology and Agronomic Performance of Three Winter Wheat Composite Cross Populations Maintained for Six Years under Organic and Conventional Conditions

sarah brumlop — 07-16-2017

Three winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) composite cross populations (CCPs) that had been maintained in repeated parallel populations under organic and conventional conditions from the F5 to the F10 were compared in a two-year replicated field trial under organic conditions. The populations were compared to each other, to a mixture of the parental varieties used to establish the CCPs, and to three winter wheat varieties currently popular in organic farming. Foot and foliar diseases, straw length, ear length, yield parameters, and baking quality parameters were assessed. The overall performance of the CCPs differed clearly from each other due to differences in their parental genetics and not because of their conventional or organic history. The CCPs with high yielding background (YCCPs) also yielded higher than the CCPs with a high baking quality background (QCCPs; in the absence of extreme winter stress). The QCCPs performed equally well in comparison to the reference varieties, which were also of high baking quality. Compared to the parental mixture the CCPs proved to be highly resilient, recovering much better from winter kill in winter 2011/12. Nevertheless, they were out yielded by the references in that year. No such differences were seen in 2013, indicating that the CCPs are comparable with modern cultivars in yielding ability under organic conditions. We conclude that—especially when focusing on traits that are not directly influenced by natural selection (e.g. quality traits)—the choice of parents to establish a CCP is crucial. In the case of the QCCPs the establishment of a reliable high-quality population worked very well and quality traits were successfully maintained over time. However, in the YCCPs lack of winter hardiness in the YCCP parents also became clearly visible under relevant winter conditions.

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Organic Farming, 2017, Volume 3, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Changes in Knowledge Management Strategies Can Support Emerging Innovative Actors in Organic Agriculture: The Case of Participatory Plant Breeding in Europe

livia ortolani — 05-04-2017

The “transfer of technology”, typical of a top-down linear process of innovation cannot be used in the new contexts of sustainability, characterised by uncertainty and complexity. There is a need to redefine categories and concepts around which innovation and agricultural policies are built, as those currently in use provide only a partial representation of reality. Innovation paradigms underpinning technological development and public policies design will have a direct impact on decisions regarding which agricultural models will ultimately be supported. Looking at local learning capacity and systems of relations can help to understand the potential to develop innovation within a specific context. This work contributes to the definition of new actors who are developing innovation for sustainability in rural areas. The study focuses on the knowledge systems of farmers who are applying alternative breeding strategies: it uses a network approach to explore the knowledge system in which individual farmers are embedded in order to understand their specific relational features. Three main conclusions emerge from the study: for enhancing the agro-ecological innovation paradigm there is a need to define the ‘innovation broker’, to revise the evaluation system of public research and to integrate innovation and agricultural policies.

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Organic Farming, 2017, Volume 3, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Basic Substances under EU Pesticide Regulation: An Opportunity for Organic Production?

patrice a. marchand — 04-18-2017

Some of the active substances allowed in organic production are now approved as basic substances under the EU plant protection products regulation. Previously, all organic farming permitted active substances were approved as conventional plant protection products. In accordance with the criteria of Article 23 of the EU regulation (EC) No 1107/2009, basic substances are granted without maximum residue limits and have a good prospect for being included in Annex II of organic farming Regulation (EC) 889/2008. In fact, most of them are already permitted in organic farming. At this stage, it seems desirable to organize applications in order to avoid duplications and to clarify strategy across Europe. This organization should be planned in order to identify corresponding knowledge and data from field experiments, and to further constitute the most crucial issues related to organic production. A work of this nature was initially supported by IFOAM-EU for lecithin, calcium hydroxide and Quassia extract. The Institut Technique de l’Agriculture Biologique (ITAB) was previously engaged in a large-scale approval plan motivated by the continuous demand for the regularization of compounds/substances already in use and has a mandate for testing and approving new compatible substances. Thus, the horsetail extract (Equisetum arvense) was the first approved basic substance and ITAB has obtained 11 of the 15 basic substances approved at the EU level.

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Organic Farming, 2017, Volume 3, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Evaluating Split Nitrogen Applications and In-Season Tests for Organic Winter Bread Wheat

erin h. roche — 02-12-2017

Achieving high grain yields and crude protein (CP) standards in organic winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is challenging because ensuring that adequate nitrogen (N) is available at key periods of wheat growth is difficult in organic systems. Split application regimes and in-season N management tests may improve organic production. In field trials conducted over four site-years in Maine and Vermont, USA, N application regimes were analyzed for their effects on organic winter wheat, N uptake, grain yield, and CP. Tiller density and tissue N tests were evaluated as in-season decision tools. Eight treatments arranged in a non-factorial design differed in terms of N application timing (pre-plant (PP), topdress at tillering (T1), and topdress at pre-stem extension (T2)) and N rate. Treatments were: (1) an untreated check, (2) pre-plant N at a low rate of 78 kg N ha^-1 (PP_L), (3) pre-plant N at a high rate of 117 or 157 kg N ha^-1 (PP_H), (4) T1₇₈, (5) PP_L + T1₃₉, (6) PP_L + T2₃₉, (7) PP_H + T2₃₉, and (8) PP_L + T1₃₉ +T2₃₉. Responses to N treatments were variable among site-years, however some common results were identified. The PP-only treatments increased grain yields more than they increased CP. The T1₇₈ and PP_H + T2₃₉ treatments were the most effective at increasing yield and CP, compared with the PP-only treatments. Tiller density and tissue N tests were good predictors of grain yield (r = 0.52, p < 0.001) and CP (r = 0.75, p < 0.001) respectively. Future work should test in-season decision tools using a wider range of tiller densities, and topdress N rates against tissue N measurements.

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Organic Farming, 2017, Volume 3, Issue 1, Pages undefined: How Scientific Is Organic Farming Research?

thomas f. döring — 02-12-2017

02-12-2017

Organic Farming, 2016, Volume 2, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Can the Adoption of Organic Farming Be Predicted by Biogeographic Factors? A French Case Study

marco pautasso — 06-28-2016

Organic farming adoption is on the rise in many countries, due to the increased awareness of farmers, citizens, governments and other stakeholders of its more sustainable nature. Various studies have investigated the socio-economic drivers (e.g., consumer demand, support measures, agricultural policies) of organic farming adoption, but less attention has been paid to whether biogeographic factors could also be associated with variation in rates of organically managed farms in certain regions within countries. We investigate whether biogeographic factors are associated with variation in the proportion of land under organic farming in French departments. The proportion of land under organic farming increased with decreasing latitude and increasing department area. Non-significant factors were number of plant taxa, proportion of Natura 2000 protected areas, connectivity, longitude, altitude and department population. These results were robust to controlling for spatial autocorrelation. Larger and southern French departments tend to have a greater adoption of organic farming, possibly because of the more extensive nature of agriculture in such regions. Biogeographic factors have been relatively neglected in investigations of the drivers of organic farming adoption, but may have an important explanatory value.

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Organic Farming, 2016, Volume 2, Issue 1, Pages undefined: A Review of ‘Organic Struggle: The Movement for Sustainable Agriculture in the United States’

charles francis — 05-30-2016

05-30-2016

Organic Farming, 2016, Volume 2, Issue 1, Pages undefined: An Experimental Test of a Biodynamic Method of Weed Suppression: The Biodynamic Seed Peppers

bruce k. kirchoff — 04-26-2016

An experimental test of a biodynamic agriculture method of weed suppression was carried out in growth chambers to establish the feasibility of the method as a preliminary to field trials. Four generations of Brassica rapa plants were used in a randomized block design. Treated flats received ashed seeds prepared according to biodynamic indications. Seed weight and counts were measured at the end of each generation, and germination of the control and experimental seed was investigated at the end of generation four. The biodynamic seed peppers, created and applied as described here, had no effect on seed production or viability, and did not effectively inhibit reproduction of the targeted species over the course of four consecutive treatments.

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Organic Farming, 2016, Volume 2, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Management Options for Organic Winter Wheat Production under Climate Change

ralf bloch — 04-18-2016

An effective adaptive strategy for reducing climate change risks and increasing agro-system resiliency is broadening cropping system diversity, heightening the flexibility of cultivation and tillage methods. Climate

change impacts on standard cultivation practices such as mineralisation and nitrate leaching due to mild and rainy winters, as well as frequent drought or water saturation, not only limiting fieldwork days, but also restricting ploughing. This calls for alternative methods to counteract these propensities. From 2010 to 2013, a farming system experiment was conducted on a distinctly heterogeneous organic farm in Brandenburg, Germany. With the intention of devising a more varied and flexible winter wheat cultivation method, standard organic farming practices (winter wheat cultivation after two years of alfalfa-clover-grass and ploughing in mid-October) were compared to four alternative test methods, which were then evaluated for their robustness and suitability as adaptive strategies. Two of the alternative methods, early sowing and catch crop, entailed moving up the date for alfalfa-clover-grass tilling to July. Instead of a plough, a ring-cutter was used to shallowly (8 cm) cut through and mix the topsoil. In the early sowing test method, winter wheat was sown at the end of August, after repeated ring-cutter processing. With the catch crop method, winter wheat seeding followed a summer catch crop and October tillage. The two oat methods (oat/plough; oat/ring-cutter) entailed sowing winter wheat in September, following oat cultivation. Overall, the cultivation methods demonstrated the following robustness gradation: standard practice $=$ catch crop $\geq$ early sowing $>$ oat/plough $>$ oat/ring-cutter. When compared to standard procedures, the catch crop and early sowing test methods showed no remarkable difference in grain yields. Measured against early sowing, the catch crop test method was significantly more robust when it came to winterkill, quality loss, and weed infestation ( $40 \%$ lower weed-cover). High $\mathrm{N}_{\min }$-values (up to $116 \mathrm{~kg} \mathrm{~N} \mathrm{ha}^{-1}$ ) in autumn could have caused the chamomile and thistle infestation in both oat/plough and oat/ring-cutter test methods, which led to crop failure in the hollows. Compared to standard practices, the oat ring-cutter test method brought in over 50%less grain yield. This was attributed to ring-cutter processing, which reduced N mineralisation and caused high weed infestation. However, the ring-cutter effectively regulated alfalfa-clover-grass fields in both exceedingly wet and very dry weather; a temporal flexibility which increases the number of fieldwork days. The catch crop and early sowing test methods contributed most to boosting future agronomic diversity.

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Organic Farming, 2015, Volume 1, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Exploring the Feasibility of Using Silage-Based Feed with Alternative Sources of Protein in Organic Pig Rations

ruth c. clements — 11-04-2015

Current regulations for organic pig and poultry production systems permit feed ingredients of non-organic origin at an inclusion rate of up to 5 per cent. This is primarily due to concerns that there is an insufficient supply of organic protein on the European Union market, in terms of quality and quantity, to meet the nutritional requirements of pigs and poultry raised on organic farms. However, 100 per cent organic diets for monogastric livestock will become compulsory in the EU from 1 January 2018, and there is therefore a need to develop sustainable feeding strategies based on organic feeds. This feed trial con- ducted in the UK explores the feasibility of using a silage-based feeding system for Gloucester Old Spot pigs, and compares the inclusion of soya, beans and peas as protein sources in terms of pig growth per- formance. No significant difference in the pen mean daily live weight gain was observed during the grower phase (pen mean age of 11–14 weeks) between the diet groups. However, during the finisher phase (pen mean age of 15–22 weeks), pigs on the soya and pea rations had significantly faster growth rates than pigs fed the bean ration. It is speculated that the slight shortfall in growth rate observed in the pigs fed the bean ration may be offset by the lower cost of production of beans in the UK. This feasibility trial demonstrates that a 100 per cent organic diet for pigs using alternative, locally-grown sources of protein as part of a forage-based ration can provide a viable alternative to a soya-based diet.

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Organic Farming, 2015, Volume 1, Issue 1, Pages undefined: A Review of 'Crop Protection in Medieval Agriculture. Studies in Pre-Modern Organic'

marco pautasso — 10-06-2015

10-06-2015

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Organic Farming, 2015, Volume 1, Issue 1, Pages undefined: 100% Organic Poultry Feed: Can Algae Replace Soybean Expeller in Organic Broiler Diets?

catherine l. gerrard — 05-06-2015

Current EU regulations allow 5% of feed for organic poultry to come from non-organic pro- duction. This is due to concerns about a 100% organic diet meeting the requirements for specific amino acids such as methionine. This exception is due to end on 31st December 2017. While this may match consumer expectations, protein sourced from global organic production may have a negative impact on perceptions of organic poultry in other ways. Soybean is a commonly used ingredient in poultry feed but soybean production has negative environmental and social impacts. Consumers may also prefer organic poultry to have been fed on locally produced feed and, indeed, this would be in line with organic principles. Preliminary feasibility feed trials were carried out during a summer and a winter season using organic broilers in the UK to test three 100% organic feeds: a control diet with globally sourced ingredients including soybean expeller, a diet based on locally sourced (i.e. within Europe) organic ingredients, and a diet based on locally sourced organic ingredients and algae (a good source of methionine). The results of the summer feed trial showed that there were no significant differences in broiler weight gains. In the winter feed trial differences were found. There was a significant difference (P = 0.034) in weight gain between the local feed (lower weight gain) and the local feed with algae but no significant difference between the control diet with soybean and the two local diets. These preliminary feed trials indicate that there is no significant impact on broiler performance or animal welfare parameters when replacing soybean with European protein sources, possibly including algae, suggesting that, although the research is still at a very early stage, such feeds may be a viable option for 100% organic poultry feed in the future.

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Organic Farming, 2015, Volume 1, Issue 1, Pages undefined: A New Evaluation Culture Is Inevitable

jack b. spaapen — 04-22-2015

04-22-2015

Organic Farming, 2015, Volume 1, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Applications of Open Source 3-D Printing on Small Farms

joshua m. pearce — 03-15-2015

There is growing evidence that low-cost open-source 3-D printers can reduce costs by enabling distributed manufacturing of substitutes for both specialty equipment and conventional mass-manufactured products. The rate of 3-D printable designs under open licenses is growing exponentially and there are already hundreds of designs applicable to small-scale organic farming. It has also been hypothesized that this technology could assist sustainable development in rural communities that rely on small-scale organic agriculture. To gauge the present utility of open-source 3-D printers in this organic farm context both in the developed and developing world, this paper reviews the current open-source designs available and evaluates the ability of low-cost 3-D printers to be effective at reducing the economic costs of farming. This study limits the evaluation of open-source 3-D printers to only the most-developed fused filament fab- rication of the bioplastic polylactic acid (PLA). PLA is a strong biodegradable and recyclable thermoplastic appropriate for a range of representative products, which are grouped into five categories of prints: hand tools, food processing, animal management, water management and hydroponics. The advantages and shortcomings of applying 3-D printing to each technology are evaluated. The results show a generalizable technical viability and economic benefit to adopting open-source 3-D printing for any of the technologies, although the individual economic impact is highly dependent on needs and frequency of use on a specific farm. Capital costs of a 3-D printer may be saved from on-farm printing of a single advanced analytical instrument in a day or replacing hundreds of inexpensive products over a year. In order for the full potential of open-source 3-D printing to be realized to assist organic farm economic resiliency and self-sufficiency, future work is outlined in five core areas: designs of 3-D printable objects, 3-D printing materials, 3-D printers, software and 3-D printable repositories.

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Organic Farming, 2015, Volume 1, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Strategies towards Evaluation beyond Scientific Impact. Pathways not only for Agricultural Research

birge wolf — 04-14-2015

Various research fields, like organic agricultural research, are dedicated to solving real-world problems and contributing to sustainable development. Therefore, systems research and the application of interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches are increasingly endorsed. However, research performance depends not only on self-conception, but also on framework conditions of the scientific system, which are not always of benefit to such research fields. Recently, science and its framework conditions have been under increasing scrutiny as regards their ability to serve societal benefit. This provides opportunities for (organic) agricultural research to engage in the development of a research system that will serve its needs. This article focuses on possible strategies for facilitating a balanced research evaluation that recognises scientific quality as well as societal relevance and applicability. These strategies are (a) to strengthen the general support for evaluation beyond scientific impact, and (b) to provide accessible data for such evaluations. Synergies of interest are found between open access movements and research communities focusing on global challenges and sustainability. As both are committed to increasing the societal benefit of science, they may support evaluation criteria such as knowledge production and dissemination tailored to societal needs, and the use of open access. Additional synergies exist between all those who scrutinise current research evaluation systems for their ability to serve scientific quality, which is also a precondition for societal benefit. Here, digital communication technologies provide opportunities to increase effectiveness, transparency, fairness and plurality in the dissemination of scientific results, quality assurance and reputation. Furthermore, funders may support transdisciplinary approaches and open access and improve data availability for evaluation beyond scientific impact. If they begin to use current research information systems that include societal impact data while reducing the requirements for narrative reports, documentation burdens on researchers may be relieved, with the funders themselves acting as data providers for researchers, institutions and tailored dissemination beyond academia.

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Organic Farming, 2015, Volume 1, Issue 1, Pages undefined: A Fresh Start for Organic Farming Research

thomas f. döring — 12-12-2013

12-12-2013

Organic Farming, 2026, Volume 12, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Sustainability of the Traditional Adan Rice Farming System in the Border Region of North Kalimantan: Linking Land Characteristics to Local Food Security

etty wahyuni — 02-27-2026

Adan rice farming is a traditional agricultural system uniquely practised in the border region of North Kalimantan, Indonesia. Cultivated organically using buffalo manure and crop residues, Adan rice contributes to local food sovereignty and shows cross-border market potential in Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam. However, its productivity remains low, and its sustainability status has not yet been clearly established. This study aimed to determine the land characteristics of Adan rice paddies, assess the sustainability status of Adan rice farming, and identify sensitive attributes influencing its sustainability. Data collection involved laboratory analysis of soil samples and a sustainability assessment using the Multidimensional Scaling (MDS) approach with Rapid Appraisal of the Status of Farming (Rap-FARM) software, supported by leverage (sensitivity) analysis, Monte Carlo simulation, stress-value testing, and the coefficient of determination (R²). The respondents consisted of 73 farmers in Krayan Sub-district. The results indicated that Adan rice paddies were dominated by clay loam, sandy clay loam, and sandy loam, with soil pH ranging from acidic to slightly acidic. Fertility indicators showed moderate to high organic carbon content, low to moderate nitrogen levels, low to moderate phosphorus levels, moderate potassium levels, and moderate to high cation exchange capacity (CEC). The novelty of this study lies in linking detailed land characteristics with a multidimensional sustainability framework for a rice cultivation system located in a strategically important border region. Unlike previous studies that focused primarily on high-yield commercial rice, this research highlights how local wisdom preserved in traditional rice cultivation can contribute to sustainable agricultural systems and food security in border areas.

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Organic Farming, 2026, Volume 12, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Ontology-Based Decision Support for Young Agripreneurs in Organic Agriculture Using Semantic Web Rule Language

sumana chiangnangam — 02-12-2026

The rapid growth of organic agriculture has created both opportunities and challenges for young agripreneurs, who should navigate certification standards (e.g., Thai Organic and the European Union Organic), compliance requirements, and market-specific documentation for domestic and international trade. This study aims to design and implement an ontology-driven decision support system (DSS) that leverages Semantic Web Rule Language (SWRL) to provide transparent and context-specific recommendations for organic farming. Having adopted a design-and-development approach, the research collected data from 50 agripreneurs and integrated these insights into an ontology framework enriched with rule-based reasoning. Five structured sets of recommendation rules were developed to link organic products, target markets, certification standards, certifying agencies, certification services, and required supporting documents while their performance was evaluated using standard information retrieval metrics. Evaluation based on case-based rule validation indicated that the system returned no false positives across the tested scenarios (100% precision), with an average recall of 93.03% and an overall F-measure of 96.39%, thus demonstrating strong logical correctness and practical applicability within the defined evaluation scope. The study concluded that embedding SWRL-based “IF–THEN” recommendation rules within ontological structures could effectively bridge fragmented regulatory and market knowledge and actionable decision making, in order to offer agripreneurs a scalable and explainable tool to manage certification and market access. The significance of this work lies in its dual contributions: theoretically, it demonstrates how semantic technologies could advance knowledge-to-decision processes in agriculture; practically, it provides structured guidance to support certification compliance and market participation in organic farming.

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Organic Farming, 2026, Volume 12, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Role of the Organic Agriculture Market in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in Indonesia: A Systematic Literature Review

doppy roy nendissa — 01-07-2026

Organic Farming, 2026, Volume 12, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Food Security of Organic Rice Farmers in Central Java and Yogyakarta in Indonesia

zuhud rozaki — 01-05-2026

Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 4, Pages undefined: Pragmaticality of Hi-Tech Innovation and Environmental Sustainability in Organic Agri-Startups: The Role of Sustainable Supply Chains

huong ho — 12-30-2025

Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 4, Pages undefined: Enhancing Traceability in Organic Rice Supply Chain with Blockchain Technology Developed by Design Science Research Methodology

rohmat taufiq — 12-25-2025

The organic rice supply chain in Indonesia, particularly in Banten Province, is characterized by high complexity and the involvement of multiple actors, which creates challenges related to transparency, traceability, and product authenticity. These issues reduce consumer trust and complicate regulatory supervision in organic farming systems. This study aims to design and evaluate a blockchain-based traceability model to enhance transparency, ensure product authenticity, and support food safety compliance in the organic rice supply chain. This research employs the Design Science Research Methodology (DSRM), encompassing problem identification, objective definition, artifact design and development, demonstration, and evaluation. Data were collected through interviews, field observations, and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) involving organic rice supply chain actors, government regulators, and experts. The proposed model was empirically evaluated using Partial Least Squares–Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) based on responses from 220 participants. The resulting Organic Rice-Supply Chain Traceability (Organic Rice-SCT) model integrates farmers, farmer cooperatives, business actors, retailers, consumers, and government agencies within a blockchain-based system supported by quick response (QR) code technology. The findings indicate that operational excellence, cultural suitability, environmental conditions, quality assurance, and organizational resources significantly influence blockchain adoption. Conversely, data management, supply chain integration, technology maturity, and knowledge management show no significant effect. The model demonstrates its capability to improve supply chain visibility, reduce information asymmetry, strengthen regulatory oversight, and support compliance with Fresh Plant-Based Food (Pangan Segar Asal Tumbuhan, PSAT) certification. In conclusion, this study provides a validated blockchain-based traceability model that enhances transparency and trust in organic rice supply chains. Practically, the model supports stakeholders and regulators in ensuring food safety and product authenticity, while theoretically contributing to the literature on blockchain adoption in sustainable agricultural systems.

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Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 4, Pages undefined: Multidimensional Sustainability Assessment of Inpari Nutri Zinc Rice Farming in Bantul, Indonesia, Using the RAP–MDS Approach

lestari rahayu — 12-16-2025

Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 4, Pages undefined: Statistical Analysis Based on Monte Carlo Method of the Technical and Economic Feasibility of Biomass Flame Weeding: Case Study of an Organic Farm

luca talucci — 11-24-2025

Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 4, Pages undefined: Community-Based Waste Mapping in the Traditional Subak Irrigation Systems: Evidence from Penebel District in Bali, Indonesia

i ketut sardiana — 10-14-2025

Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 3, Pages undefined: 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 — 09-29-2025

Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 3, Pages undefined: Determinants of Farmers’ Willingness to Adopt Organic Agriculture: Behavioural Insights and Systemic Challenges

gabriel adewunmi eyinade — 08-28-2025

Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 3, Pages undefined: Rainfall Forecasting in Central Lombok Using an Enhanced Facebook Prophet Model with Multiplicative Seasonality

yuyun hidayat — 08-19-2025

Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 3, Pages undefined: Regenerative Organic Agriculture: A Pathway to Ecosystem Restoration and Sustainable Agricultural Development

yashaswini sharma — 08-18-2025

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.

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Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 3, Pages undefined: The Collaborative Roles of Stakeholders in Advancing Sustainable Organic Rice Farming in Yogyakarta

triyono — 08-10-2025

Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 2, Pages undefined: Effects of Organic and Amino Acid Fertilization on Growth and Yield of Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)

zeyad amer mostfa — 06-29-2025

This study was conducted during the 2023-2024 growing season at the Agricultural Technical College, Northern Technical University, Nineveh Governorate, to evaluate the effects of organic and amino acid fertilization on the vegetative growth and yield performance of eggplant (Solanum melongena L.). A randomized complete block design (RCBD) was employed, comprising two fertilizer types (organic and amino acid) and three concentrations (0, 10, and 15 g·L⁻¹), resulting in six treatment combinations, each replicated three times, for a total of 18 experimental units. Statistical analysis was performed using SAS software. Significant improvements were observed in several vegetative and physiological parameters, including plant height, number of branches, stem diameter, and chlorophyll content. Organic fertilization produced the most substantial increases in plant height (43.000 cm), number of branches (5.444 branches·plant⁻¹), stem diameter (16.367 mm·seedling⁻¹), and leaf chlorophyll content (22.723 SPAD), significantly outperforming amino acid fertilization and the control. In contrast, amino acid fertilization resulted in a higher number of fruits per plant (5.888 fruits·plant⁻¹). The interaction between organic fertilization and the 10 g·L⁻¹ concentration yielded the highest plant height (52.667 cm) and number of fruits (6.000 fruits·plant⁻¹). Additionally, the combination of organic fertilization and 15 g·L⁻¹ concentration significantly increased the number of branches (6.666 branches·plant⁻¹) and chlorophyll content (29.417 SPAD). The stem diameter reached its maximum value (20.050 mm·seedling⁻¹) under amino acid fertilization at a concentration of 10 g·L⁻¹. The control treatment consistently produced the lowest values across all evaluated parameters. These findings demonstrate that both organic and amino acid fertilization can significantly enhance specific growth and yield components in eggplant, with organic fertilizers exhibiting superior overall performance in vegetative traits and amino acids promoting reproductive output. The results highlight the potential of integrating amino acid and organic nutrient management strategies to optimize eggplant productivity under field conditions.

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Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 2, Pages undefined: Influence of Tithonia diversifolia-Derived Organic Fertilizer and Planting Density on Potato Productivity in Batu, East Java

maroeto — 06-29-2025

A transition toward organic fertilizers has increasingly been adopted as a key strategy to support sustainable agriculture, particularly in highland farming systems. In Sumber Brantas Village, Batu City, East Java—one of Indonesia's major highland potato-producing regions—potato (Solanum tuberosum) cultivation plays a critical role due to its high market value, adaptability to altitude, and importance as a carbohydrate source. This study investigated the effects of Tithonia diversifolia-derived organic fertilizer and varying plant densities on potato growth and productivity. Four fertilizer application rates (0, 120, 175, and 230 kg N/ha) and three plant densities (35,000, 47,000, and 71,000 plants/ha) were evaluated using a randomized block design arranged in a split-plot layout. Results indicated that the application of Tithonia diversifolia organic fertilizer significantly enhanced plant height, tuber biomass, and nitrogen (N) uptake. The highest fertilizer dose (230 kg N/ha) was associated with a 25% increase in N absorption and a 28% improvement in tuber yield relative to the unfertilized control. However, plant density did not exert a statistically significant effect on measured agronomic parameters. These findings underscore the agronomic value of Tithonia diversifolia as an organic fertilizer capable of improving nutrient use efficiency and tuber productivity under highland cultivation conditions. The results support the integration of this bioresource into sustainable nutrient management strategies for potato production, particularly in regions where agroecological conditions favor organic inputs.

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Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 2, Pages undefined: Improving Soil Fertility and Forage Productivity Through Bioorganic Fertilizer Substitution for Urea in Pennisetum purpureum-Macroptilium atropurpureum Association

ni gusti ketut roni — 06-29-2025

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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Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 2, Pages undefined: A Maturity Model Approach to Evaluating Sustainable Supply Chains of Organic Agricultural Cooperatives Amid the Transition to Industry 5.0 in Rural Vietnam

huong ho — 06-19-2025

The transition toward Industry 5.0 has necessitated a deeper understanding of sustainable supply chain development, particularly within organic agricultural cooperatives operating in rural environments. In this context, a comprehensive assessment was conducted to examine the determinants influencing sustainable supply chains and to evaluate their maturity within organic agricultural cooperatives in Vietnam’s rural regions. A sample of 250 cooperatives was selected for analysis. The data were processed through a two-stage methodology: initially employing an ordinal logistic regression (OLR) model to identify key influencing factors, followed by the application of a sustainable supply chain maturity model to assess the developmental stage of these cooperatives. The results revealed that the average maturity level of sustainable supply chains among the surveyed cooperatives approached Level 3, suggesting a moderate stage of development with partial integration of sustainability practices. Among the evaluated dimensions, quality issues (mean score: 3.53), customer and marketing management (3.22), and supplier management (3.05) were found to exert the most substantial influence on supply chain sustainability. Furthermore, policy implications were proposed to support cooperative development. The study contributes to the existing literature by offering an empirically grounded maturity model framework tailored to the unique dynamics of rural organic agriculture and by advancing the discourse on sustainable supply chain management in emerging economies undergoing industrial transformation.

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Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 2, Pages undefined: Sustainability Evaluation of Robusta Coffee Farming in Malinau Regency Using the Sustainable Livelihood Framework

adi sutrisno — 06-10-2025

Robusta coffee cultivation in Malinau Regency has been increasingly associated with forest land conversion, thereby intensifying the need for sustainable management practices that align with both environmental conservation and rural livelihood enhancement. To evaluate the sustainability of Robusta coffee farming systems, the sustainable livelihood framework was applied, focusing on five key livelihood capitals: natural, human, social, physical, and financial. A mixed-methods approach involving Multidimensional Scaling (MDS) and thematic analysis was employed to quantify sustainability levels and identify leverage points for strategic intervention. Results indicated that most capitals were classified as either “unsustainable” or “less sustainable.” Social capital demonstrated the lowest performance, with an index of 15.10, while financial capital followed at 20.88; both were categorized as “unsustainable.” Natural capital (26.13) and human capital (26.09) were deemed “less sustainable,” whereas physical capital showed relatively higher resilience with an index of 46.61, though still within the “less sustainable” threshold. Key constraints included insecure land tenure, underdeveloped infrastructure, limited social cohesion, and economic dependence on non-coffee income sources. Strategic interventions were proposed, including the certification of land ownership for 70% of coffee farmers within three years, the revitalization of farmer cooperatives to improve social capital, and the enhancement of rural infrastructure, particularly targeting 85% electricity coverage in coffee-producing areas by the second year. The integration of Geographical Indication (GI) certification with agroforestry-based production systems was identified as a pivotal strategy to reconcile ecological integrity with market competitiveness. By year four, price premiums of up to 40% in domestic markets and 60% in international markets were targeted through value addition and branding. These integrated measures are expected to reinforce livelihood resilience while promoting long-term socio-ecological sustainability in Malinau’s coffee landscapes.

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Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Predicting the Success of Coffee Farmer Partnerships Using Factor Analysis and Multiple Linear Regression

budi utomo — 03-30-2025

The determinants of successful partnership models between coffee farmers and key stakeholders—comprising private enterprises, cooperatives, and governmental bodies—were investigated to enhance productivity and sustainability within the coffee sector in Mojokerto, Indonesia. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating factor analysis and multiple linear regression modeling to examine the predictive influence of partnership dimensions. Four core dimensions—economic, social, cultural, and agroclimatic—were evaluated through exploratory factor analysis to uncover latent structures underpinning partnership success. The analysis resulted in the identification of four principal components: socio-economic exchange dynamics, socio-economic connectivity of agriculture, capital networks and socio-economic experience, and economic and educational networks. These components were subsequently used as independent variables in a multiple linear regression model, where partnership success was operationalized through kernel weight outputs as a proxy for productivity performance. The regression model accounted for 84.19% of the variance in partnership success, indicating strong explanatory power. The findings underscore the critical role of non-economic dimensions—particularly social connectivity and education—in driving effective partnerships, alongside traditional economic considerations. Policy implications include the need to design intervention strategies that enhance farmers' access to capital, strengthen educational and training programs, and encourage participation in socio-economic networks. While the model demonstrates strong internal validity within the context of the coffee industry, its applicability to other agricultural commodities remains to be tested. Further research is recommended to validate these findings across diverse agro-industrial contexts, thereby supporting the development of inclusive and scalable partnership models. This study contributes empirical evidence to inform stakeholder decision-making and promote resilient, equity-driven frameworks for agricultural collaboration.

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Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Risk Behavior of Shallot Farmers in Highland and Lowland Regions of Java, Indonesia

sriyadi — 03-30-2025

Shallot farming in Indonesia has significant risks, primarily due to production variability and price instability. These risks deter farmers from adopting strategies involving higher risk tolerance levels. Risk aversion varies across individuals, leading to differences in decision-making processes. The study examines income risk levels in shallot farming. It explores farmers' behaviors in response to these risks in two distinct regions: the highlands of Karanganyar Regency, Central Java, and the lowlands of Bantul Regency, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta. A total of 200 shallot farmers were randomly selected for structured interviews to assess their risk behavior and the factors influencing it. The analysis reveals that shallot farming entails a high degree of income risk, and the highland areas exhibit a greater coefficient of variation (0.574) compared to the lowlands (0.544). Approximately 65% of highland farmers and 80% of lowland farmers were observed to be risk-averse concerning their shallot farming activities. Key factors influencing risk behavior include land size, household size, farming experience, age, frequency of crop failure, education, income, and farming location. Notably, farming experience, education, household size, and income positively impact risk behavior, increasing farmers' likelihood of adopting risk-taking strategies. The primary source of income risk was production variability, exacerbated by staggered planting schedules. This study highlights the importance of synchronizing planting schedules and strengthening farmer group networks to improve planning, marketing, input procurement, and knowledge exchange. The findings also provide a foundation for policymakers to design regulations that optimize planting times and mitigate income risks in shallot farming.

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Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Automated Evaluation of Onion Seed Quality Using Physical Characteristics via Image Processing and Machine Learning Techniques

monika surse — 03-30-2025

Seed Quality is an important area of agriculture and directly influences crop yield and germination percentage. Visual examination forms the foundation of traditional seed testing techniques, which are cumbersome, inflexible, and inefficient for effective assessment. This study proposed an automated approach to seed quality assessment based on physical measurement using machine learning and image processing techniques. Snapshots of the new seeds were captured and underwent feature extraction, segmentation, and image improvement to explore notable morphological attributes, such as size and colour. To tag seeds as "good" or "bad" based on physical characteristics, Support Vector Machines (SVMs) are used as a reference model. Rather, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) have been utilised for deep feature extraction and classification. Experimental findings indicate that CNNs perform better than conventional machine learning models, with a scalable and highly accurate method of seed quality assessment. Future use will utilise quantum machine learning to improve prediction and facilitate sustainable, precision agriculture. The improved framework, optimised with great care for onion seeds, is a major breakthrough in increasing the agricultural productivity of onion cultivation.

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Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Forecasting Rice Crisis Dynamics in Southeast Asia Using a Spatio-Temporal Autoregressive Model Based on the Restlessness Indicator

yuyun hidayat — 03-30-2025

The rice crisis represents a significant threat to food security and economic stability in Southeast Asia, a region where rice serves as the primary staple for the majority of the population. This crisis is exacerbated by a confluence of factors, including climate change, crop failures, and restrictive export policies, as exemplified by the El Niño phenomenon and India’s 2023 rice export ban. Rising rice prices have been linked to increased social unrest, with the potential to trigger widespread demonstrations across affected nations. To proactively address this issue, the restlessness indicator was introduced as a predictive tool, integrating key variables such as rice prices, consumption patterns, and per capita income. This study employs a Spatio-Temporal Autoregressive (STAR) model to forecast restlessness values across six Southeast Asian countries—Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia—from 2024 to 2028. The STAR (5,1) model was identified as the optimal framework, achieving a Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of 15.1%. The forecasting results indicate that none of the analyzed countries are projected to enter a state of unprecedented restlessness during the specified period, suggesting that no severe rice crisis is anticipated within this timeframe. These findings provide critical insights for policymakers and stakeholders, enabling the development of preemptive strategies to mitigate potential food security challenges. The study underscores the utility of the restlessness indicator as a robust tool for monitoring and forecasting rice-related crises, contributing to the broader discourse on sustainable food systems in Southeast Asia.

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Organic Farming, 2025, Volume 11, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Enhancing Soil Fertility Through Azolla Incorporation: Impacts on Nitrogen Cycling and Cation Exchange Capacity

i made adnyana — 03-30-2025

The incorporation of Azolla into soil was investigated in this study for its potential to enhance soil fertility by influencing key parameters, including organic carbon (Organic-C) content, total nitrogen (Total-N), and cation exchange capacity (CEC). This study was conducted in a controlled greenhouse environment using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with eight treatments and three replications. The primary objective was to evaluate the effects of Azolla on soil quality, particularly in improving organic matter content and nitrogen (N) retention, both of which are essential for sustainable agricultural management. The findings indicate that Azolla incorporation led to a 29% increase in soil Organic-C and a 21% increase in Total-N compared to control treatments (p < 0.05). Additionally, CEC was enhanced by 33.4%, demonstrating improved nutrient retention capacity. A strong positive correlation was observed between Organic-C content, soil pH, and CEC, suggesting that Azolla contributes to optimizing soil nutrient dynamics. These results highlight the capacity of Azolla to function as a biofertilizer, improving soil fertility and nitrogen cycling while reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers. The potential of Azolla to serve as an eco-friendly amendment aligns with sustainable agricultural practices aimed at enhancing soil health and long-term productivity. The findings contribute to the growing body of research on biofertilizers, offering valuable insights for soil management strategies that prioritize environmental sustainability and resource efficiency.

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Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 3, Pages undefined: Assessing the Sustainability of Organic Rice Farming in Kulonprogo Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia

eni istiyanti — 09-29-2024

Organic rice farming in Kulonprogo Regency, recognized by the Indonesian government as a pioneering region for organic agriculture, has been increasingly adopted as a sustainable agricultural practice. However, the implementation of organic rice farming systems continues to face significant challenges that hinder their full potential. This study evaluates the sustainability of organic rice farming in Kulonprogo Regency using the Multidimensional Scaling (MDS) technique, facilitated by the Rapfish application, across three critical dimensions: ecological, economic, and social. Data were collected from 70 respondents across three farmer groups—Srijati, Tegal Mulyo, and Jatingarang Lor—selected through a census method, all of which have fully transitioned to organic rice farming practices. The sustainability indices derived from the analysis revealed that the ecological dimension scored 87.79%, indicating a "sustainable" status, while the economic and social dimensions scored 52.35% and 71.61%, respectively, both categorized as "quite sustainable." These findings underscore the ecological robustness of organic rice farming in the region while highlighting the need for targeted interventions to enhance economic viability and social acceptance. Overall, the sustainability level of organic rice farming in Kulonprogo Regency was classified as "moderately sustainable." The validity of the analysis was confirmed through a Standardized Residual Sum of Squares (STRESS) value of 0.25%, which is categorized as "excellent," ensuring the reliability and accuracy of the results. This study provides critical insights into the sustainability dynamics of organic rice farming, offering a foundation for policymakers and stakeholders to develop strategies that address existing challenges and promote long-term sustainability in the region. These findings indicate the urgency of implementing sustainable agricultural practices in organic rice cultivation, as well as the strategic role of government support in price stabilization policies, waste management, and equitable program distribution to strengthen the economic, ecological, and social aspects of the sustainable agricultural system.

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Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 3, Pages undefined: Biomorphological and Technological Characterization of Khyndogny Grapes: Implications for Enhancing Yield and Quality in Viticulture

vugar salimov — 09-29-2024

The Khyndogny grape variety, indigenous to the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan, represents a vital component of the area’s viticultural heritage. Despite its historical and cultural significance, the cultivation and development of Khyndogny face numerous challenges. This study aims to comprehensively evaluate the morphological, biological, and technological characteristics of Khyndogny, with a particular focus on its enocarpological and enochemical properties, population structure, biotypic diversity, and clonal variations. Field and laboratory analyses were conducted, integrating morphological assessments, physicochemical evaluations, and comparative studies with the locally cultivated Madrasa and the globally recognized Cabernet Sauvignon varieties. Advanced analytical techniques were employed to quantify critical parameters such as sugar content, titratable acidity, and other factors influencing wine quality and yield potential. The findings reveal that Khyndogny outperforms both Madrasa and Cabernet Sauvignon across multiple quality metrics, achieving a superior overall evaluation score of 7.22, compared to 6.70 and 5.78, respectively. The variety’s high yield potential and suitability for premium winemaking were demonstrated, underscoring its value for sustainable viticulture and regional economic development. However, challenges related to genetic variability, environmental adaptation, and cultivation practices were identified, necessitating further research and innovation. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of grape biodiversity in Karabakh and provides actionable insights for the promotion of Khyndogny in both local and global wine markets. Limitations related to sample size and environmental variability were acknowledged, and future research directions were proposed, including long-term adaptation strategies, genetic improvement programs, and market expansion initiatives. By addressing these challenges, Khyndogny has the potential to emerge as a cornerstone of high-quality viticulture and a driver of economic growth in the region.

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Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 3, Pages undefined: Farmer Regeneration and Labor Requirements in Rice Farming: A Case Study of West Denpasar District, Denpasar City, Bali, Indonesia

dwi putra darmawan — 09-29-2024

Farmer regeneration has been recognized as a critical factor in ensuring sustainable agricultural development and preserving ecological and cultural heritage. This study aims to: (i) examine the socio-demographic characteristics of rice farmers, (ii) assess the state of farmer regeneration, and (iii) analyze the labor requirements within the rice farming sector in West Denpasar District, Denpasar City, Bali, Indonesia. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining structured and in-depth interviews with 187 farmers, selected using the Slovin formula with a 5% margin of error and a 95% confidence level from a population of 352 farmers. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through interviews and surveys to evaluate the agricultural system and workforce dynamics. The findings indicated that 59.36% of respondents identified farming as their primary occupation. However, a significant majority of their children pursued non-agricultural professions, citing the preference for stable income and professional careers. While most farmers endeavored to instill ecological values and emphasized the cultural significance of rice farming, 74.86% reported that their children had no engagement in agricultural activities. The labor force in rice farming primarily comprised family members supplemented by hired workers, particularly during labor-intensive periods. The employment of external workers was necessitated by extensive landholdings and the operational demands of mechanized and manual farming practices. These findings underscore the importance of addressing generational shifts in farming participation to ensure the sustainability of agricultural productivity and cultural heritage. Farmer regeneration was identified as pivotal to enhancing agricultural output, fostering ecological conservation, and improving community food security, while simultaneously addressing broader socio-economic challenges.

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Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 3, Pages undefined: Localized Biopesticide Application Using UAVs for the Control of Migratory Locusts in Kazakhstan

valerij аzhbenov — 09-29-2024

The migratory locust has become a principal threat to agricultural production in Kazakhstan, exacerbating risks posed by drought, fires, and other natural disasters. The widespread and persistent use of chemical pesticides, often referred to as "chemical press" tactics, has been the conventional approach to locust control. However, such methods are associated with escalating costs, environmental contamination, and the development of pesticide resistance. In response, alternative strategies that focus on preventive control and localized treatment have been explored. This approach aims to mitigate the negative ecological impacts of indiscriminate pesticide application by targeting locust populations with biological control agents and low-toxicity plant protection products in identified foci. This study evaluates the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for the precision application of biopesticides in Kazakhstan's locust-affected regions. Orthophotographic maps generated from UAV imagery were employed to detect locust presence based on indirect diagnostic indicators. These maps facilitated the identification of locust aggregations, which were subsequently treated with biologically based pest management solutions. The effectiveness of UAV-based localized treatments was assessed, demonstrating significant control over locust populations in focal areas, with minimal environmental impact. The results suggest that UAV technology, combined with targeted biological treatments, offers a promising alternative to traditional chemical methods, potentially reducing pesticide resistance and ecological harm while maintaining effective pest control. This approach aligns with sustainable agricultural practices and enhances the efficiency of pest management strategies in locust-prone regions.

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Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 3, Pages undefined: Farmers’ Perceptions of Saline-Sodic Soil Impacts on Rice Production in Navotas, Balayan, Batangas, Philippines

june spencer a. cera — 09-29-2024

Soil salinization is a critical global issue that undermines agricultural productivity, threatens food security, and compromises the sustainability of farming systems. In the coastal region of Navotas, Balayan, Batangas, Philippines, the increasing salinization of irrigated rice farmlands due to saline-sodic soils has become a pressing concern. The understanding of farmers' perceptions regarding the risks associated with soil salinity, as well as their insights into the causes, consequences, and coping mechanisms, remains inadequately explored. This gap in knowledge may hinder the development of effective countermeasures and appropriate policy interventions. In this study, farmers' perceptions of saline-sodic soils were assessed through Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), which were analysed using thematic analysis and Causal Loop Diagrams (CLDs). Saltwater intrusion was consistently identified as the primary cause of soil salinization, with subsequent reductions in rice yields ranging from 60% to 100%, depending on the growth stage of the crop. The most vulnerable periods were identified as June to August, particularly during the vegetative and flowering stages of rice. Farmers reported coping strategies such as irrigation with freshwater and the cultivation of salt-tolerant rice varieties; however, challenges related to delayed access to freshwater and seeds were frequently mentioned. The expansion of saline-sodic areas was identified as the most significant threat to rice production, with the condition of saline-sodic soils in lowland rice paddies increasingly viewed as a worsening problem. These findings underscore the severe impact of saline-sodic soils on both agricultural productivity and farmers' livelihoods, providing valuable insights that can inform the development of tailored management strategies and mitigation measures.

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Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 2, Pages undefined: Assessing the Sustainability of Organic Rice Farming in Central Java and Yogyakarta: An Economic, Ecological, and Social Evaluation

zuhud rozaki — 06-29-2024

The sustainability of organic rice farming has become a significant focus in agricultural development, as it addresses the interconnected challenges of economic viability, environmental preservation, and social equity. This study evaluates the sustainability of organic rice farming across five districts in Central Java and Yogyakarta, Indonesia, through a comprehensive assessment of economic, ecological, and social dimensions. A proportional stratified random sampling approach was employed, involving 150 farmer respondents, with 30 farmers selected from each district. Descriptive analysis revealed an average sustainability score of 2.94, indicating a moderate level of sustainability. In addition, the Rapid Appraisal for Sustainability (RAPS) tool yielded an average index score of 68.56, categorising the farming systems as "fairly sustainable." The model was further validated through a normalization test, which demonstrated strong consistency across the three sustainability dimensions, with a Standardized Residual Sum of Square (STRESS) value of 0.14 and an R-Squared (RSQ) value of 0.95, suggesting that the data were robust and the model reliable. Sensitivity analysis identified seven critical factors influencing sustainability: agricultural product prices, financial management, poverty alleviation, crop rotation, the involvement of women and young farmers, and preservation of tradition. The results of validation and stability tests indicated that the sustainability model was both stable and reliable across all three dimensions, with an overall sustainability score of 1. These findings underscore the importance of promoting sustainable agricultural practices in organic rice farming and highlight the need for enhanced government involvement in raising awareness, providing training, and fostering educational initiatives to support the economic, ecological, and social dimensions of sustainability in the region.

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Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 2, Pages undefined: Enhancing Biological Control Efficiency: Predatory Potential of Phytoseiulus Persimilis Against Tetranychus Urticae in Greenhouse Conditions

karlygash alpysbayeva — 06-29-2024

This study examines the predatory efficiency and biological characteristics of Phytoseiulus persimilis in managing Tetranychus urticae (two-spotted spider mite) populations under laboratory and greenhouse conditions. Laboratory assessments were conducted to evaluate feeding preferences and reproductive performance by providing Ph. persimilis with different prey types, including T. urticae eggs, Sitotroga cerealella eggs, and decapsulated Artemia salina cysts. Findings indicated a marked preference for T. urticae eggs, with Ph. persimilis consuming an average of 23.5 eggs per day, significantly surpassing other prey types in consumption rate. Greenhouse trials in cucumber cultivation systems evaluated the predator's efficacy in reducing T. urticae populations at a predator-to-prey ratio of 1:10. Within 10 days, Ph. persimilis achieved a reduction of over 70% in T. urticae populations, underscoring its effectiveness as a biological control agent in greenhouse settings. Statistical analyses, conducted using dispersion analysis via Microsoft Excel and SigmaStat 3.1 software, validated these findings. Controls comprised untreated greenhouse sections and laboratory containers devoid of predators to ensure accurate comparative assessments. The results support Ph. persimilis as a highly effective biological control agent, demonstrating significant predation rates and reproductive success, which underscores its potential to reduce chemical pesticide reliance and promote sustainable, eco-friendly pest management in integrated pest management (IPM) frameworks.

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Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 2, Pages undefined: Sustainability Practices in Indonesian Cattle Farming: Insights from the SAFA Framework

abin suarsa — 06-29-2024

This study investigates the sustainability practices employed by cattle farmers in Indonesia, applying the Sustainability Assessment of Food and Agriculture Systems (SAFA) framework. As global concerns surrounding environmental degradation and resource depletion intensify, understanding sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in livestock farming, has become imperative. A qualitative approach was employed, gathering data through interviews and field observations with seven cattle farmers from Boyolali and Salatiga, two districts recognized for their significant cattle farming activities. The analysis focused on four key dimensions of sustainability: environmental integrity, social well-being, economic resilience, and good governance. It was found that while farmers implement various sustainable practices, such as crop rotation and the use of organic fertilizers, significant challenges remain. These include limited access to environmentally friendly technologies, inadequate financial resources, and insufficient government policy support. The selection of participants was based on their ability to provide in-depth insights into sustainability practices in cattle farming, complementing the qualitative data collected. The findings highlight the necessity of improving technological adoption and enhancing community engagement to drive more sustainable outcomes in the sector. Additionally, the study underscores the role of policymakers in fostering more supportive environments for sustainable agriculture. This research fills a critical gap in the literature on the sustainability of cattle farming in Indonesia, offering practical recommendations to stakeholders, including policymakers, to promote more resilient and environmentally sustainable farming practices. By detailing the current practices and challenges encountered by farmers, the study contributes to the development of informed agricultural policies aimed at ensuring long-term sustainability within the cattle farming sector in Indonesia.

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Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 2, Pages undefined: Sustainable Management of Wastewater Sludge Through Composting with Effective Microorganisms: Enhancing the Growth of Tecoma stans

kevin ortega-quispe — 06-24-2024

The mismanagement of sewage sludge generated by wastewater treatment plants poses significant environmental and health risks, necessitating the exploration of sustainable alternatives for its reuse in forestry production. This study aims to assess the impact of sewage sludge stabilization and composting, utilizing effective microorganisms (EM), on the growth performance of Tecoma stans. A completely randomized experimental design was implemented in two phases. In the first phase, four treatments were tested with 12 kg of mixture in each: Treatment 1 (T1) (100% sludge with EM), Treatment 2 (T2) (75% sludge and 25% organic waste with EM), Treatment 3 (T3) (50% sludge and 50% organic waste with EM), and Treatment 4 (T4) (25% sludge and 75% organic waste with EM). The second phase involved testing five composite substrates, mixing agricultural soil with compost derived from each treatment and a control substrate, for the cultivation of Tecoma stans seedlings. Each substrate was tested with 20 experimental units, containing 15 seedlings per unit, totaling 300 seedlings. T3 demonstrated superior results in the first phase, containing 34.78% organic matter, 1.39% nitrogen, a carbon/nitrogen (C/N) ratio of 14.7, and a pH of 7.4, adhering to Chilean, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and Mexican standards. In the second phase, T3 exhibited enhanced seedling growth, with an optimal nitrogen concentration and a Dickson quality index (DQI) of 0.768. The findings suggest that composting sewage sludge with organic residues in equal proportions and inoculating with EM produces mature, high-quality compost that meets international standards for forestry applications. This approach offers a sustainable solution for wastewater sludge management, promoting environmental restoration and supporting local forestry development.

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Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 2, Pages undefined: Assessing the Impact of Exogenous Shocks on Production Efficiency in Agri-Startups: A Case Study of Organic Agricultural Cooperatives in Hung Yen, Vietnam

hai-dang-nguyen — 06-22-2024

The global food system faces significant vulnerabilities due to pandemics, which not only disrupt economies and governmental functions but also threaten food security and public health. Organic farming, particularly within cooperatives, plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable agriculture and enhancing rural development while contributing to ecosystem protection. This study investigates the production efficiency of 306 agricultural cooperatives in Hung Yen Province, Vietnam, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The efficiency assessment utilizes the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) model to examine the influence of factors such as the potential of cooperatives, labor resources, production processes, supply chains, and governmental support on the technical efficiency of these cooperatives. The findings indicate that organic cooperatives in Hung Yen maintained production efficiency throughout the pandemic, largely due to the adoption of advanced technologies and active participation in supply chains, which facilitated swift adaptation to new challenges. Among the influencing factors, the internal potential of cooperatives, labor resources, product development processes, and supply chain dynamics were identified as the most significant, whereas governmental support was found to have the least impact (0.07 for the first group, 0.06 for the second, and 0.06 for the third) during the pandemic. Additionally, three key factors—years of operational experience, product diversity, and business procedure support—were determined to have the greatest effect on production efficiency across different cooperative groups in the COVID-19 context. The study underscores the importance of enhancing the intrinsic potential of organic cooperatives to better adapt to rapid changes, thereby supporting rural development and agricultural productivity in the face of economic shocks such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Enhancing Nutritional Value and Production Efficiency of Feeds Through Biochemical Composition Optimization

saltanat baidalina — 03-30-2024

The necessity to optimize feed crop cultivation in Kazakhstan's steppe zone is underscored by evolving climatic conditions and sustainable agriculture demands. This study, conducted from 2021 to 2023 in the Akmola region, evaluated the nutritional value and production efficiency of annual and perennial grass mixtures. A randomized complete block design was utilized for annual grasses, while a sequential scheme was applied for perennial grasses, each with three replications per plot. Statistical data processing was employed to analyze the outcomes. Results indicated that mixed-feed crops exhibited superior nutritional composition and energy value. Specific combinations of annual grasses, such as oats with peas or oats, peas, and vetch, alongside multicomponent mixtures incorporating legumes for perennial grasses, demonstrated optimal results. The ideal harvest timings for these grass mixtures were also established. It is recommended to cultivate combinations like Sudan grass with peas and vetch, or oats with peas and vetch for green feed, and for hay and pasture, combinations of red fescue, bluegrass, wheatgrass, and alfalfa, as well as red fescue, bluegrass, brome, sainfoin, and alfalfa. This research emphasizes the importance of diverse crop mixtures to enhance feed nutritional value, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural practices, food security, and environmental resilience amid climate change.

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Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Influence of Brewery Waste and Animal Manure-Based Compost on the Growth of Green Amaranth in Sandy Tropical Soils

nancy e. ebido — 03-30-2024

The productivity of sandy tropical soils may be enhanced through the application of composted organic materials. This study investigates the effects of composted mixtures of brewery spent grain (BSG) and animal manures on the growth of green amaranth (Amaranthus caudatus L) under field conditions. Composted treatments included BSG mixed with poultry droppings (PD) or cattle dung (CD) in volumetric ratios of 1:1 and 2:1 prior to composting, resulting in four compost variants: BSG+PD_(1:1), BSG+PD_(2:1), BSG+CD_(1:1), and BSG+CD_(2:1). Additionally, composted BSG alone served as a reference. Each amendment was added at 20 t ha^–1, alongside an un-amended control for comparative purposes. Growth and yield assessments conducted four weeks post-sowing revealed that not all amended treatments outperformed the control. Notably, the BSG+PD_(1:1) treatment consistently increased total biomass (fresh and dry matter yields by approximately 143% and 58%, respectively) as immediate effects, and significantly more (184% and 108%, respectively) as residual effects when compared to the control. Leaf yields under this treatment showed increases of 173-177% (immediate effects) and 122-125% (residual effects). These variations in amaranth growth and yield were primarily attributed to improvements in soil exchangeable calcium (Ca) and total nitrogen (N) content due to the compost application. The findings suggest that a composted equal-volume mix of BSG and PD may serve as an effective organic amendment for enhancing the yield of short-duration leafy vegetables like amaranth in coarse-textured soils of the humid tropics.

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Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Trends in Use of Crop Cultivars from Organic and Conventional Seed Multiplication: Moving Toward 100% Organic Seed Use in German Organic Agriculture

freya schäfer — 03-30-2024

Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Modeling the Analysis for the Exploitation of Fertilizers and Pesticides on Rice Production in Bangladesh

pulak kundu — 03-30-2024

Organic Farming, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 1, Pages undefined: Assessment of Drought Adaptation in Hevea Brasiliensis PB 260 Clone Seedlings During El Nino Events

yayuk purwaningrum — 03-30-2024

The atmospheric El Nino phenomenon, characterized by elevated sea surface temperatures in the eastern Pacific Ocean, leads to reduced precipitation and increased temperatures in Indonesia due to diminished influx of moist air. These conditions necessitate the development of drought-resistant rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) seedlings, particularly for regions susceptible to such climatic variations. This study focuses on the PB 260 clone, investigating the efficacy of burnt husk applications in enhancing drought resilience. Employing a non-factorial randomized block design (RBD), three treatments were administered to the seedlings: no burnt husk, burnt husk as mulch, and burnt husk as a planting medium, with each treatment replicated three times and utilizing 30g of burnt husk per polybag. It was observed that the application of burnt husk as mulch significantly promoted root growth compared to the other treatments. This was quantified by measurements showing an increase in root length (98.7m), surface area (45.54m²), and volume (30 mL). These results suggest that the use of burnt husk as mulch might offer a viable strategy for enhancing drought adaptation in Hevea brasiliensis, providing a foundation for earlier tapping maturity through improved root development under drought conditions.

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