Overcoming Challenges in Organic Farming

Switching to organic farming presents challenges:

A 3-year transition impacts finances due to yield drops (20-40%) and certification delays. Manage yields with crop rotation and cover crops. Soil health is key; compost and diverse crops help. Organic pest control prioritises prevention: crop diversity, beneficial habitats, and natural timing. Companion planting and biological controls offer alternatives to chemicals. Market access requires new relationships. Direct sales and CSAs offer good margins. Retail and food service markets are growing. Diversify market channels to reduce risk. Organic farming benefits health, the environment, and the economy. Challenges include pest control, soil fertility, and certification. Support organic by buying organic produce or gardening organically.