COMMERCIAL VS SUBSISTENCE FARMING Flashcards
Commercial Farming Systems
Soil management strategies in commercial farming systems typically prioritise high yields and profitability. Intensive tillage methods, such as mechanical ploughing, may be used to prepare the soil for planting, but this can increase the risk of erosion and soil compaction. Synthetic fertilisers are often applied to provide nutrients for crop growth, but excessive use can lead to nutrient imbalances and pollution of water bodies through runoff. Pesticides and herbicides may be utilised for pest and weed control, but they can have negative impacts on soil biodiversity and overall ecosystem health. Commercial farming systems use soil conservation measures such as soil conditioning, wind reduction, contour ploughing and generally avoid using marginal lands for agriculture. By focusing on more fertile and suitable lands, commercial farming systems can optimise resource utilisation and minimise negative environmental impacts.
Subsistence Farming Systems
Subsistence farming systems often rely on traditional practices to enhance soil fertility. Organic materials such as crop residues, animal manure, and compost are commonly used as soil conditioners and fertilisers. These materials help replenish nutrients, improve soil structure, and enhance water-holding capacity. Traditional practices such as slash-and-burn agriculture or shifting cultivation may be used, where farmers clear small plots of land, cultivate them for a few years, and then leave them fallow to regenerate. Crop rotation and intercropping techniques are also often employed to optimise nutrient cycling and maximise yields. Soil conservation measures like terracing and contour plowing may be implemented to control erosion, retain soil moisture, and enhance soil fertility. Subsistence farming systems often make use of marginal lands due to limited access to more fertile areas. These marginal lands may have lower soil fertility and higher erosion risk. However, subsistence farmers often adopt sustainable practices, such as mixed cropping, agroforestry, and crop rotation, to improve soil health and mitigate erosion on these lands. These practices help optimise resource utilisation and enhance food security in challenging environments.
