Skip to main content
Elsevier

Towards Holistic Agriculture

A Scientific Approach

  • 1st Edition - July 30, 1987
  • Latest edition
  • Author: R.W. Widdowson
  • Language: English

This book explains the use of an ecological way of farming, with modern practical applications, to make the fullest use of land resources and the best utilization of available… Read more

Data Mining & ML

Unlock the cutting edge

Up to 20% on trusted resources. Build expertise with data mining, ML methods.

Explore now

Description

This book explains the use of an ecological way of farming, with modern practical applications, to make the fullest use of land resources and the best utilization of available capital and labour. In analyzing the vital relationship between soil, plant, animal and man, the author discusses the best care of land itself, its components, grassland management and the most efficient use of crops to maximize yield, food quality and profitability without the extensive use of chemicals and without damaging the ecology. Widdowson also covers the holistic approach to animal farming, the welfare and health of poultry, cattle, sheep and goats, their nutritional needs through the various stages of their lives, and the best way to balance their diets.

Readership

For all those interested in organic farming and its implications for modern agricultural practices.

Table of contents

Introduction. Soil and Cultivations: Mineral fraction; Organic matter. Symbiotic fixation. Conversion of organic nitrogen to nitrate. Ethylene cycle. Bulk density of soil. Soil reconditioning tools. Keyline cultivation. Sources of Plant Nutrients: Fertilizers. Macro nutrients. Micro nutrients. Organic fertilizers. Mineral fertilizers. Plant nutrient loss. Pests and Diseases: Weeds. Pests. Plant diseases. Animal diseases. Fungicides and pesticides. Pesticides. Rotation and Crops. Grassland Management: General considerations. Establishment of grassland. Subsequent management. Seed mixtures. Grassland improvements. Animal Husbandry: Monogastrics. Ruminants. Animal Nutrition: Diets for monogastrics. Diets for ruminants. Some Other Considerations: Yield. Profitability. Food quality. Energy utilisation. Finite resources. Pollution and animal welfare. Labour usage. Epilogue. Appendix I. Appendix II. Appendix III. Index.

50 lit. refs., 13 illus.

Review quotes

"Easy to read, this book should be in all agricultural schools as an alternative to currently traditional agriculture."—Choice

Product details

  • Edition: 1
  • Latest edition
  • Published: July 30, 1987
  • Language: English

About the author

RW

R.W. Widdowson

Affiliations and expertise
Bourne, Lincolnshire, UK

View book on ScienceDirect

Read Towards Holistic Agriculture on ScienceDirect