The Origins Of Nature Farming
Nature Farming Philosophical Farming
As we continue looking at past philosophers/philosophies in agriculture, we go to Japan and look at the origins of Nature Farming.
Nature Farming means “saving the world through natural or organic farming methods”(Parr et al. 1989). It is a philosophical approach to farming versus a scientific approach. Nature Farming was created by Mokichi Okada in 1936 to treat soils with respect. Okada’s followers eventually formed two groups: Mokichi Okada Association (MOA) and Sekai Kyusei Kyo (SKK), which continue his work today. Since the leader of a religious organization started it, it also has a very spiritual approach.
“In practice, synthetic chemicals and raw waste from animals without treatment are prohibited as fertilizers or soil amendments for crop production. Composts from plant materials are recommended. This is the main difference with the principles of organic farming, which allows the use of animal manure, untreated or composted.” (Hui-Lian Xu, 2013)
Although Nature Farming may sound similar to “organic farming,” some distinct differences exist. In organic farming, organic fertilizers are added, there is working of the soil, and there are pest and weed control methods.
Nature farming, sometimes called “ecological farming” or “natural farming,” is a method of farming that tries to emulate and coexist with natural ecosystems. It is founded on biodiversity, sustainability, and little interference with agricultural processes. Nature Farming emphasizes exploiting natural resources, including organic matter, microbes, and beneficial insects, to maintain soil fertility, control pests, and stimulate plant development.
Nature Farming Key Principles
Respect for Nature: Nature farming is based on a strong regard for the natural world. In Okada's opinion, it is crucial to operate in harmony with the natural world for the benefit of humanity and the planet. He stressed how crucial it is to comprehend and value the natural cycles and processes that support life.
Chemical-Free Agriculture: In Nature Farming, synthetic chemicals, pesticides, and artificial fertilizers are not used. Instead, it advocates for ecologically sound and sustainable agricultural practices that rely on soil improvement and disease and pest resistance mechanisms to safeguard crops.
No Plowing: No-till is one hallmark of Nature Farming. Erosion can result from plowing because it disturbs the soil's structure. Minimal soil disturbance is encouraged by nature farming to maintain the soil's natural fertility.
Microorganisms and Soil Health: Okada understood the significance of microorganisms in maintaining healthy soil. Nature Farming focuses on the propagation of beneficial microorganisms through procedures like composting and organic waste (manures). The basis of productive farming is considered to be healthy soil that is abundant in microbial life.
Crop Rotation and Biodiversity: Critical elements of Nature Farming are crop rotation and planting varied crops. These methods reduce the likelihood of insect and disease outbreaks while preventing soil erosion. It is advisable to preserve biodiversity to preserve ecological balance.
Spiritual Connection: The teachings of Mokichi Okada frequently included spiritual components. He thought that the quality and vitality of crops may be improved by having a strong spiritual bond with the land and the plants grown there.
Sustainability and Self-Sufficiency: With the help of the farm, self-sustaining ecosystems are intended to be created through Nature Farming. This promotes long-term sustainability and lessens reliance on outside resources.
Holistic Approach: Nature Farming is a complete way of life that includes one's physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being and agriculture. Okada urged people to coexist peacefully with nature and show respect for all living things.
Agroecology and sustainable agriculture movements are frequently linked to Nature Farming. It aims to produce wholesome, nutritious food while reducing the harmful effects of conventional farming on the environment.
Another influential person in the natural farming approach was Masanobu Fukuoka. Fukuoka coined the phrase “do nothing farming” in his popular book The One-Straw Revolution, published in English in 1978 and translated by Larry Korn. The book is great and can be found online as a free download. Fukuoka took a different approach than Okada, yet he still did Nature Farming and should be included in this section.
Worldwide, people and communities looking for more ecologically friendly and sustainable agricultural practices have found resonance in Mokichi Okada's teachings and Nature farming methods. This strategy complements more significant movements that support agroecology, permaculture, and organic farming. The necessity of stewardship in protecting the Earth's resources for future generations is underscored by Nature Farming, which serves as a reminder of the intimate bond that exists between people and the natural environment.
Feel free to read further:
Cascadiannaturalfarming.org/natural-farming-history
Finalstraw.org/
Gardeningforpeace.com/nature-farming/
Infrc.or.jp/english/
Sources
Xu, Hui-lian. (2013). Nature Farming in Japan - This is a book with interesting contents in 170 pages. 10.1300/J144v03n01_01.
Parr et al. First International Conference On Kyusei Nature Farming. Preface. p. V. Oct. 1989.