Microbial basis of organic farming systems with special reference to biodynamic preparations

Abstract

Organic agriculture systems aim primarily at use of naturally occurring ecological processes rather than external inputs, to manage crops and livestock. These farming systems emphasize on ecofriendly methods of insect, pest and weed control. Biodiversity is the key component of organic agrisystems responsible for its efficacy. According to IFOAM (International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements) organic production methods are those where at least 95% of the ingredients used for agriculture purposes are organic in nature. Latter content less than 70% may not refer to organic production methods. Organic farming systems work on nature’s principles; improve agro ecosystem health including soil biological activity and product quality. The most followed organic farming systems are Permaculture, Panchagavya farming, Rishi Krishi, Natueco farming, Zero budget natural farming, Biodynamic farming etc. Enormous literature and supportive materials are available to justify the use of these farming systems to combat soil pollution created by use of various chemicals. However, when it comes to scientific explanation, the work is scattered. A common person may develop the assumption that these systems might possess some supernatural or magical curing ability. However, these preparations work on scientific principles mostly powered by microbes and their metabolic products. In the present review, research on various organic preparations, with special reference to their microbial properties, has been compiled and analysed. The review will be of immense benefit to students, researchers and strategy planners working in the field of organic farming.

Incidence of Drug-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae Strains in Organic and Conventional Watermelons Grown in Tennessee

“…Similar findings were also reported by other researchers such as [ 21 , 22 ]. This may be because organic agriculture focuses on the use of natural processes to improve soil microbial activities [ 23 ]. Plastic mulch as a barrier on the soil surface may reduce the number of microbes reaching the surfaces of fruits, thereby resulting in a lower microbial count and diversity while also causing changes in soil physical and chemical properties and microbial activities [ 24 ].…”

Designing a Seed Health Strategy for Organic Cropping Systems, Based on a Dynamic Perspective on Seed and Plant Health

“…Outside the scope of registration requirements for commercial, formulated products, seed applications of artisanal and local preparations-such as compost teas, effective microorganisms, biodynamic preparations, or the Latin-American "organismos de montaña"are being experimented in farms and gardens worldwide [79][80][81]. These preparations often involve endemic micro-organisms originating from local plants, soils or animals and have mainly been developed to be applied to crops and soils.…”