The word "organic" refers to the way farmers grow
and process agricultural products, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy
products and meat. Organic farming practices are designed to encourage soil and
water conservation and reduce pollution. Farmers who grow organic produce and
meat don't use conventional methods to fertilize, control weeds or prevent
livestock disease. For example, rather than using chemical weedkillers, organic
farmers may conduct more sophisticated crop rotations and spread mulch or
manure to keep weeds at bay.
Here are some key differences between conventional farming
and organic farming:
CONVENTIONAL
- Apply chemical fertilizers to promote plant growth.
- Spray synthetic insecticides to reduce pests and disease.
- Use synthetic herbicides to manage weeds.
- Give animals antibiotics, growth hormones and medications to prevent disease and spur growth.
ORGANIC
- Apply natural fertilizers, such as manure or compost, to feed soil and plants.
- Spray pesticides from natural sources; use beneficial insects and birds, mating disruption or traps to reduce pests and disease
- Use environmentally-generated plant-killing compounds; rotate crops, till, hand weed or mulch to manage weeds.
- Give animals organic feed and allow them access to the
outdoors. Use preventive measures — such as rotational grazing, a balanced diet
and clean housing — to help minimize disease.
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