Download or read book The Earthworms Role in Sustainable Agricultural Practices and Vermicomposting written by Mallikarjun Yadawade and published by GRIN Verlag. This book was released on 2023-12-13 with total page 22 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Academic Paper from the year 2023 in the subject Biology - Zoology, grade: A, , course: B.Sc., language: English, abstract: This paper explores the fascinating world of earthworms and their role in vermicomposting—an eco-friendly method of converting organic waste into nutrient-rich fertilizer. For over 20 million years, earthworms have played a vital role in soil health by consuming decomposing organic matter. The paper delves into the digestive process of earthworms, highlighting the transformation of organic waste into natural fertilizer within their alimentary canals. The paper details the methods of vermicompost preparation, covering site selection, the anatomy of earthworms, and step-by-step procedures. Additionally, it explores the characteristics of vermicompost, encompassing physical, chemical, and biological attributes. The nutritional value of vermicompost and its impact on plant growth, development, and soil health are thoroughly examined. The study also touches on how vermicompost can influence plant diseases and act as a biological control agent. To ensure successful vermicomposting, the paper provides precautions during production, emphasizing the need for a shaded area, proper moisture, and precautions against external threats to earthworms. Overall, this comprehensive paper sheds light on the multifaceted benefits of vermicomposting, making it a valuable resource for those interested in sustainable agricultural practices.
Download or read book Bioremediation of Agricultural Soils written by Juan C. Sanchez-Hernandez and published by CRC Press. This book was released on 2019-03-14 with total page 247 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The quality of agricultural soils are always under threat from chemical contaminants, which ultimately affect the productivity and safety of crops. Besides agrochemicals, a new generation of substances invades the soil through irrigation with reclaimed wastewater and pollutants of organic origin such as sewage sludge or cattle manure. Emerging pollutants such as pharmaceuticals, nanomaterials and microplastics are now present in agricultural soils, but the understanding of their impact on soil quality is still limited. With focus on in situ bioremediation, this book provides an exhaustive analysis of the current biological methodologies for recovering polluted agricultural soils as well as monitoring the effectiveness of bioremediation.
Download or read book Vermicomposting for Sustainable Food Systems in Africa written by Hupenyu Allan Mupambwa and published by Springer Nature. This book was released on 2023-03-01 with total page 364 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This edited book collates the research done mainly in Africa on vermicomposting and related technologies that can assist African smallholder farmers in making nutrient rich organic fertilizers from their animal and crop residue wastes. Information on the development of organic sources of liquid fertilizer development for hydroponics is also presented. The book presents research findings on vermicomposting in a simplified way that will allow farmers and extension workers to adopt the indicated technologies. The book also covers critical aspects of standardization of vermicompost preparation, earthworm biology, nutrient enrichment of composts and organic liquid fertilizer production. Vermicomposting is a technology that employs earthworms to enhance the biodegradation and fertilizer value of organic wastes. The earthworms optimize the biodegradation ecosystem during composting, resulting in a final nutrient rich product with more recalcitrant forms of carbon and much lower levels of veterinary antibiotics and their metabolites. Vermicompost as an organic fertilizer is highly preferred over other forms of soil enhancers. A lot of research has been done on vermicompost and related activities in Africa but remain scattered across various publications. The book is an invaluable source of information for farmers especially those practicing organic crop production, vermicomposting researchers, as well as extension workers.
Download or read book The Worm Farmer s Handbook written by Rhonda Sherman and published by Chelsea Green Publishing. This book was released on 2018-11-08 with total page 256 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Choice Reviews, Outstanding Academic Title Techniques and systems for processing food scraps, manure, yard debris, paper, and more Turning waste into wealth sounds too good to be true, but many worm farmers are finding that vermicomposting is a reliable way to do just that. Vermicast—a biologically active, nutrient-rich mix of earthworm castings and decomposed organic matter—sells for $400 or more per cubic yard. Compare that to regular compost, sold at about $30 a cubic yard, and you’ll see why vermicomposting has taken root in most countries and on every continent but Antarctica. Vermicomposting is also one of the best sustainable solutions for organic waste management. Vermicomposting manure and crop wastes on farms improves crop yields while reducing demand for off-farm inputs. Vermicast has higher nutrient levels and lower soluble salt content than regular compost, and it improves soil aeration, porosity, and water retention. Plus, vermicast suppresses plant diseases and insect attacks. Municipalities, businesses, community gardens, schools, and universities can set up vermicomposting operations to process food residuals and other waste materials. The Worm Farmer’s Handbook details the ins and outs of vermicomposting for mid- to large-scale operations, including how to recycle organic materials ranging from food wastes and yard trimmings to manure and shredded office paper. Vermicomposting expert Rhonda Sherman shares what she has learned over twenty-five years working with commercial worm growers and researchers around the world. Her profiles of successful worm growers across the United States and from New Zealand to the Middle East and Europe describe their proven methods and systems. This book digs into all the details, including: Choosing the right production system Regulatory issues and developing a business and marketing plan Finding and managing feedstocks Pre-composting: why and how to do it Monitoring an active worm bed Harvesting, screening, testing, packaging, and storing vermicast Markets for earthworms and vermicast Food security: how vermicast benefits soils and plants Keys to success: avoiding common pitfalls From livestock farms and restaurants to colleges, military bases, and prisons, Sherman details why and how commercial-scale vermicomposting is a fast-growing, sustainable solution for organic waste management. The Worm Farmer’s Handbook is the first and only authoritative how-to guide that goes beyond small-scale operations and demystifies the science and logistics of the fascinating process that is vermicomposting.
Download or read book Vermiculture Technology written by Clive A. Edwards and published by CRC Press. This book was released on 2010-12-20 with total page 603 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Exploring the dramatic growth and changes in the field of vermicomposting since 1988, this comprehensive review assesses the advancements made in government-funded projects in the U.S. and UK. It discusses outdoor and indoor windrows, container systems, wedge systems, and low labor-requirements. It also examines fully-automated continuous flow vermicomposting reactor systems that can process more than 1000 tons of organic wastes per reactor. The book highlights the science and biology behind the use and efficacy of vermicomposting and details the technology of the past, present, and future.
Download or read book The Complete Technology Book on Vermiculture and Vermicompost Earthworm with Manufacturing Process Machinery Equipment Details Plant Layout written by Dr. Himadri Panda and published by ASIA PACIFIC BUSINESS PRESS Inc.. This book was released on 2022-03-22 with total page 368 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Advantage of vermicomposting is that it composts the wastes of rural areas. They clean our villages by using unnecessary organic and non-organic materials. Improves the texture of the soil and its ability to store water. Improves root growth and the multiplication of beneficial soil microorganisms by providing optimum aeration to the soil. Vermicompost (vermi-compost) is a mixture of decomposing vegetable or food waste, bedding materials, and vermicast created by the decomposition process using various species of worms, usually red wigglers, white worms, and other earthworms. This is known as vermicomposting, and the practise of raising worms for this purpose is known as vermiculture. Sewage treatment can also be done with vermicomposting. The Global Vermicompost Market is reach growing at a CAGR of 16.74%. The Growth of the global vermicompost market is caused by various factors, such as improved soil aeration, improved water holding capacity, better nutrient cycle, and enriched soil with micro-organism, helps in plant root growth and structure, enhanced germination. The vermicomposting method is used in organic farming. Increasing the use of sustainable agricultural practices, such as vermicomposting along with Government support for organic farming is significantly contributing to the global vermicompost market growth. Vermicompost offers plants with necessary nutrients and helps in plant diseases suppression. Worm castings often comprise 7 times more phosphorus, 11 times more potassium, and 5 times more nitrogen than ordinary soil, which are crucial minerals required for plant growth. Vermiculture and Vermicompost (Earthworm), as well as their manufacturing methods, are all covered in depth in this book. It also offers photos of equipment as well as contact information for industrial providers. This book is a one-stop shop for everything you need to know about the Vermiculture and Vermicompost (Earthworm) industry, which is ripe for manufacturers, merchants, and entrepreneurs. This is the only book that goes into great detail about Vermiculture and Vermicompost. It's a genuine feast of how-to material, from concept to equipment buying.
Download or read book Vermiculture and Organic Farming written by Sathe Tukaram Vithatran and published by Daya Books. This book was released on 2004-09 with total page 140 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Vermiculture and organic farming has attracted the attention on naturalists, ecologists and workers in applied sciences such as Agriculture, Pest Management, Horticulture, Sericulture etc., at global scenario. Agricultural chemicals increase tremendous pressure on agroecosystem. Increasing use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides lead to serious problems in agroecosystem such as air, water and soil pollution, pest resistance, pest resurgence, secondary pest out break, killing of beneficial and non target organisms, destruction of ecocycles and endemic soil fauna, drying of soil, etc. The use of biofertilizers, vermicompost, biological pest control technique will certainly add great relevance in solving the above problems. Therefore, in the present book, attempts have been made on Vermiculture and Vermicomposting, Biofertilizers and their Production and Production of Biological Pest Control Agents. Importance of biofertilizers, species diversity, applications and production technique for Rhizobium, Azotobacter, Azolla, Blue-green algae, Mycorrhizae, Azospirillum, Green manure, Organic composting have been described under the chapter Biofertilizers and their Production, while, under the chapter production of biological pest control agents, emphasis is given on the importance of biological pest control technique and mass production techniques of various BCA such as Trichogramma, Chilonus blackburni, Cryptolaemus montrouzieri and Crysoperla carnea. This book is need of modern agriculture and useful guide to naturalist, students, teachers, farmers, researchers and industrialist. Contents Chapter 1: Vermiculture and Vermicomposting; Chapter 2: Biofertilizers and their Production; Phosphate solubizing microorganisms, Rhizobium production, Azotobacter production, Azospirillum production, Blue green algae (BGA) production, Azolla production, Mycorrhiza production, Green manure, Organic matter and composting; Chapter 3: Production Techniques for Biological Pest Control Agents; Mass production technique for trichogramma, Mass production technique for chelomus blackburni, Mass production technique for cryptolaemus montrouzieri, Mass production technique for chrperla carnea.
Download or read book Handbook on Vermicomposting Requirements Methods Advantages and Applications written by Manish Kumar Singh and published by Anchor Academic Publishing (aap_verlag). This book was released on 2014-04-10 with total page 145 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Now-a-days the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture has reached its peak. This harms the human health as well as environment. The process of agricultural modernization has been an important contributing factor towards this. This deprives the land from its fertility and leaves it unfit for further agricultural operations. Hence, a better alternative of such chemical monsters is required to overcome these ill-effects. Therefore, a shift from chemical to organic farming is appreciated. Production efficiency, economic efficiency and employment generation efficiency of any system is a direct measure of its preferability. Therefore, this study deals with the requirements, methods, advantages, etc. of vermicomposting as well as its applications in agriculture. The main purpose of this process is the quick and efficient conversion of the organic waste materials into the nutritious fertilizer for plants.
Download or read book Beginner s Guide to Earthworm Farming written by Mary Murphy and published by Penguin Random House South Africa. This book was released on 2017-08-02 with total page 186 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: If you are concerned about the health of our planet then turn your attention to what lies under your feet. Working in the soil below are creatures that play a pivotal role in producing the food we eat and impacting the quality of our food crops. Earthworms were described by Darwin as the most important species on our planet and by Aristotle as ‘the intestines of the earth’. Beginner’s Guide to Earthworm Farming provides all the information you need on these remarkable creatures and how important they are to the functioning of life on Earth. The content includes how earthworms benefit the environment, your garden and the economy; the role earthworms play in reducing carbon emissions and removing heavy metals and toxins from our soil; how you can set up your own earthworm farm or compost heap; recyling, how waste negatively impacts water and the environment, how to effectively reduce kitchen waste; and much more.
Download or read book The Worm Farmer s Handbook written by Rufus Feathersby and published by Independently Published. This book was released on 2023-09-05 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of vermiculture? "The Worm Farmer's Handbook" is your essential guide to mastering the art and science of raising earthworms for a multitude of benefits, from enriching your garden soil to reducing waste in an eco-friendly way. Getting Started With Vermiculture Discover the basics of vermiculture, from its history to the incredible advantages it offers for both gardeners and the environment. Understanding the Benefits of Vermiculture Learn how vermicomposting can transform your gardening efforts, reduce landfill waste, and create nutrient-rich soil amendments. Choosing the Right Worms for Your Farm Select the ideal worm species for your vermicomposting needs and understand their unique characteristics. Setting Up Your Vermiculture System Get step-by-step instructions for creating a worm-friendly habitat, whether you're setting up indoors or outdoors. Creating the Perfect Worm Bed Master the art of bedding, providing your worms with a comfortable environment for optimal reproduction and waste conversion. Feeding and Maintaining Your Worms Explore the dietary needs of your earthworms and maintain a healthy, thriving worm population. Troubleshooting Common Vermiculture Issues Find solutions to common challenges, from pest problems to issues with moisture and temperature. Harvesting and Using Worm Castings Discover the treasure trove of nutrient-rich worm castings and how to incorporate them into your garden soil. Using Worm Tea as a Natural Fertilizer Learn how to brew worm tea, a potent liquid fertilizer, and foliar spray that can boost plant growth. Vermiculture for Indoor Gardening Explore vermicomposting techniques suitable for apartment dwellers and indoor gardening enthusiasts. Vermiculture for Outdoor Gardening Enhance your garden's soil health and fertility with the magic of vermicomposting. Expanding Your Worm Farm Scale up your vermicomposting operation to meet your needs or even start a small business. Vermiculture for Composting Discover how vermiculture can turbocharge your compost pile, turning kitchen scraps into rich, dark compost. Vermiculture for Sustainable Agriculture Explore the role of vermiculture in sustainable and organic farming practices. Vermiculture in Urban Environments Learn how vermiculture can thrive even in urban settings, contributing to a greener, more sustainable city. Whether you're a seasoned gardener looking to take your soil to the next level or a beginner eager to embrace eco-friendly practices, "The Worm Farmer's Handbook" offers a comprehensive roadmap to success in the world of vermiculture. Join the ranks of worm enthusiasts and transform your gardening and environmental impact today. Start your vermicomposting journey now!
Download or read book Earthworm Vermicompost written by Rajiv Kumar Sinha and published by . This book was released on 2011 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Earthworm's vermicompost is a nutritive organic fertiliser rich in NKP, micronutrients, and beneficial soil microbes. They are scientifically proven to be excellent growth promoters and protectors for crop plants. In experiments with corn and wheat crops it displayed excellent growth performances in terms of height of plants, colour and texture of leaves, as well as the appearance of fruiting structures. There is also less incidences of pest and disease attack and reduced demand of water for irrigation. This book discusses and presents data which suggest that the vermicompost of earthworms contributes to an increase in the yield of crops when used as a fertiliser.
Download or read book Resources Use Efficiency in Agriculture written by Sandeep Kumar and published by Springer Nature. This book was released on 2020-09-18 with total page 762 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Achieving zero hunger and food security is a top priority in the United Nations Development Goals (UNDGs). In an era characterized by high population growth and increasing pressure on agricultural systems, efficiency in the use of natural resources has become central to sustainable agricultural practices. Fundamentally speaking, eco-efficiency is about maximizing agricultural outputs, in terms of quantity and quality, using less land, water, nutrients, energy, labor, or capital. The concept of eco-efficiency involves both the ecological and economic aspects of sustainable agriculture. It is therefore essential to understand the interaction of ecosystem constituents within the extensive agricultural landscape, as well as farmers’ economic needs. This book examines the latest eco-efficient practices used in agro-systems. Drawing upon research and examples from around the world, it offers an up-to-date overview, together with insights into directly applicable approaches for poly-cropping systems and landscape-scale management to improve the stability of agricultural production systems, helping achieve food security. The book will be of interest to educators, researchers, climate change scientists, capacity builders and policymakers alike. It can also be used as additional reading material for undergraduate and graduate courses on agriculture, forestry, soil science, and the environmental sciences.
Download or read book Biology of Earthworms written by Ayten Karaca and published by Springer Science & Business Media. This book was released on 2010-11-09 with total page 323 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Earthworms, which belong to the order Oligochaeta, comprise roughly 3,000 species grouped into five families. Earthworms have been called ‘ecosystem engineers’; much like human engineers, they change the structure of their environments. Earthworms are very versatile and are found in nearly all terrestrial ecosystems. They play an important role in forest and agricultural ecosystems. This Soil Biology volume describes the various facets of earthworms, such as their role in soil improvement, soil structure, and the biocontrol of soil-borne plant fungal diseases. Reviews discuss earthworms’ innate immune system, molecular markers to address various issues of earthworm ecology, earthworm population dynamics, and the influences of organic farming systems and tillage. Further topics include the characteristics of vermicompost, relationships between soil earthworms and enzymes, the role of spermathecae, copulatory behavior, and adjustment of the donated sperm volume.
Download or read book Earthworms and Vermicomposting written by Sohan Singh Walia and published by Springer Nature. This book was released on 2024-01-10 with total page 153 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book explains the lifecycle of earthworms, biological features, multiplication of worms, species of earthworms that are suitable for vermicomposting, different sources of vermicompost, nutrient recovery and different procedures for making of vermicompost and importance of application of vermicompost in cereal, fruit and vegetable crops. The tremendous increase in population, urbanization, industrialization and agricultural production results in accumulation quantities of solid wastes. This has created serious problem in the environment. In order to dispose this waste safely it should be converted effectively. This is achieved by bio-composting and vermicomposting of farm, urban and agro-industrial waste. It is being increasing realized that composting is an environment friendly process, convert wide variety of wastes into valuable agricultural inputs. Compost is excellent source of humus and plant nutrients, on application of which improve soil biophysical properties and organic matter status of the soil. India generates about 350 million tonnes of agricultural waste every year. Agricultural wastes include crop residues, weeds, leaf litter, sawdust, forest waste, and livestock waste. Under appropriate conditions, worms eat agricultural waste and reduce the volume by 40 to 60%. Vermicompost produced by the activity of earthworms is rich in macro and micro-nutrients, vitamins, growth hormones, enzymes such as proteases, amylases, lipase, cellulase and chitinase and immobilized microflora. This book will assist farmers, students and scholars to guide them about lifecycle of earthworms, biological features, multiplication of worms, species of earthworms that are suitable for vermicomposting and different procedures for making of vermicompost. This book will also benefit students of agriculture at graduate and post graduate level as students have a designated course on vermicomposting.
Download or read book Worm Farming Practical Guide written by Robert Stott and published by Independently Published. This book was released on 2024-04-15 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Discover the fascinating world of vermicomposting and unlock the secrets to turning organic waste into nutrient-rich compost with " Worm Farming Practical Guide." Whether you're a novice gardener seeking eco-friendly solutions or a seasoned enthusiast looking to enhance your composting skills, this comprehensive guide is your essential companion to successful vermicomposting. Delve into the art and science of vermicomposting as you learn how humble worms transform kitchen scraps and other organic materials into black gold for your garden. From selecting the right worms and setting up your worm bin to troubleshooting common issues and harvesting compost, "Worms at Work" offers practical advice, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips to help you navigate every stage of your vermicomposting journey. Inside, you'll find: Comprehensive Guidance: Understand the principles of vermicomposting and learn how to create optimal conditions for your worm farm, including selecting the right location, preparing the bin, and adding bedding materials. Feeding Your Worms: Discover which foods are suitable for your worm bin, learn how to manage worm food effectively, and avoid common pitfalls to keep your worms healthy and productive. Managing Your Worm Farm: Master the art of monitoring temperature and moisture levels, troubleshooting common issues, and harvesting nutrient-rich compost for your garden. Utilizing Vermicompost: Explore the benefits of vermicompost and learn various ways to incorporate it into your garden, including topdressing, soil amendment, and brewing vermicompost tea for maximum plant health. Advanced Techniques: Scale up your vermicomposting operation, experiment with different worm species, and adapt vermicomposting to unique environments and circumstances with advanced techniques and innovative strategies. Troubleshooting and FAQs: Find solutions to common problems such as pests, odors, and other concerns, and get answers to frequently asked questions to deepen your understanding and overcome challenges in your vermicomposting journey. Embrace the power of worms and join the vermicomposting revolution with " Worm Farming Practical Guide" Whether you're a backyard gardener, urban homesteader, or environmental enthusiast, this indispensable guide will empower you to transform waste into wealth and cultivate a healthier, more sustainable future for yourself and the planet.
Download or read book Worm Farming Guide written by Joan P Brooke and published by Independently Published. This book was released on 2024-04-11 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Welcome to the ultimate guide to worm farming, your comprehensive handbook for mastering the art of vermicomposting and organic waste management. In this definitive guide, acclaimed author Joan P. Brooke presents a wealth of practical advice, expert tips, and innovative techniques to help you harness the power of worms and transform organic waste into nutrient-rich compost for your garden, urban farm, or sustainable homestead. Whether you're a novice gardener seeking to reduce your ecological footprint or an experienced farmer looking to optimize your soil fertility, this book is your go-to resource for everything you need to know about worm farming. From setting up your first worm bin to harvesting and using vermicompost effectively, Joan P. Brooke provides step-by-step guidance, backed by years of hands-on experience and scientific research. Inside this comprehensive guide, you'll discover: The Basics of Vermicomposting: Learn the fundamentals of worm biology, behavior, and habitat requirements to create optimal conditions for your worm farm. Choosing the Right Worms: Explore different species of worms, including red wigglers and European nightcrawlers, and select the best ones for your vermicomposting needs. Setting Up Your Worm Bin: Get practical tips for building and maintaining various types of worm bins, from DIY containers to commercial systems, suitable for any space and budget. Feeding and Caring for Your Worms: Discover the ideal diet for your worms, how to manage moisture levels, and troubleshooting common issues to keep your worm farm thriving. Harvesting and Using Vermicompost: Learn when and how to harvest vermicompost, as well as creative ways to incorporate it into your garden soil, potting mixes, and plant care routines. Advanced Techniques and Innovations: Explore cutting-edge vermicomposting technologies, advanced composting methods, and innovative applications of worm castings for sustainable agriculture. Packed with practical advice, troubleshooting tips, and Sustainable Agriculture Practices, "Worm Farming Guide" is your essential companion on the journey to sustainable living and regenerative farming practices. Whether you're a backyard gardener, urban homesteader, or aspiring environmental steward, this book will empower you to harness the transformative power of worms and revolutionize your approach to organic waste management. Join Joan P. Brooke on this transformative journey and discover the endless possibilities of worm farming. Let's cultivate healthier soils, greener communities, and a more sustainable future-one worm at a time.
Download or read book The Soil and Health written by Albert Howard and published by A Distant Mirror. This book was released on 2020-03-22 with total page 463 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This is a newly edited revision of Albert Howard's important text on organic farming and gardening, and the central role of humus in maintaining soil health and fertility. No single generation has the right to exhaust the soil from which humanity must draw its sustenance. Modern agricultural practices, with their emphasis on chemicals, poisons, and toxins, lead to the impoverishment and death of the soil. THE SOIL AND HEALTH is a detailed analysis of the vital role of humus and compost in soil health — and the importance of soil health to the health of crops and the humans who eat them. The author is keenly aware of the dead end which awaits humanity if we insist on growing our food using artificial fertilisers and poisons. Albert Howard (1873-1947) was one of the leaders of the British organics movement in the mid-twentieth century. He was the first westerner to document and publish research on traditional techniques of agriculture, including Indian and Chinese farming and management of the soil. "Agriculture is the fundamental industry of the world and must be allowed to occupy the primary position in the economies of all countries." — Albert Howard CONTENTS 1 - Soil Fertility and Agriculture 1.1 The operations of Nature - The life of the plant - The living soil - The significance of humus - The importance of minerals 1.2 Systems of agriculture - Primitive forms of agriculture - Shifting cultivation - The harnessing of the Nile - Staircase cultivation - The agriculture of China - The agriculture of Greece and Rome - Farming in the Middle Ages 1.3 Soil fertility in Great Britain - The Roman occupation - The Saxon conquest - The open-field system - The depreciation of soil fertility - The low yield of wheat - The Black Death- Enclosure - The Industrial Revolution and soil fertility - The Great Depression of 1879 - The Second World War 1.4 Industrialism and the profit motive - The exploitation of virgin soil - The profit motive - The consequence of soil exploitation - The easy transfer of fertility - The road farming has travelled 1.5 The intrusion of Science - The origin of artificial fertilisers - The advent of the laboratory hermit - The unsoundness of Rothamsted - Artificials during the two world wars - The shortcomings of current agricultural research 2 - Disease in Present-day Farming and Gardening 2.1 Diseases of the soil - Soil erosion - The formation of alkaline land 2.2 The diseases of crops - Sugar Cane - Coffee - Tea - Cacao - Cotton - Rice - Wheat - Vine - Fruit - Tobacco - Leguminous crops - Potato 2.3 Disease and health in livestock - Foot-and-mouth disease - Soil fertility and disease - Concentrates and contagious abortion - Selective feeding by instinct - Herbs and livestock - The maintenance of our breeds of poultry 2.4 Soil fertility and human health 2.5 The nature of disease 3 - The Problem of Manuring 3.1 The origins and scope of the problem - The phosphate problem and its solution - The reform of the manure heap - Sheet-composting and nitrogen fixation - The utilisation of town wastes 3.2 The Indore Process - Some practical points - The New Zealand compost box - Mechanisation - The spread of the Indore Process 3.3 The reception by scientists 4 - Conclusions and Suggestions
