Principles of Organic Farming: PTE Listening: Fill in the Blanks practice questions

Maintaining soil fertility is the cornerstone of sustainable agriculture. Rather than relying on synthetic fertilisers, organic growers depend on natural decomposition to enrich the ground. Applying well-rotted compost introduces vital nutrients and beneficial microorganisms that improve the soil structure. These microscopic organisms break down organic into forms that plants can easily absorb. Consequently, the soil becomes more to erosion and retains moisture far more effectively during dry spells. Over several seasons, this practice builds a healthy that supports robust root development and enhances natural against common crop diseases.

Controlling insect damage without chemical sprays requires a detailed understanding of local ecology. Organic farmers often encourage populations of predatory insects to suppress harmful species naturally. By planting diverse floral borders around fields, they provide alternate food sources and for beneficial creatures such as ladybirds and hoverflies. These predators feed on aphids and other pests, keeping their numbers below damaging . Furthermore, introducing specific companion plants can emit natural aromas that actively unwanted insects. This ecological approach maintains environmental while protecting yields without leaving toxic on the harvested food.

Alternating different plant families across fields is an essential strategy for long-term land management. Continuous cultivation of a single crop rapidly depletes specific minerals and encourages persistent weeds. In contrast, a well-planned rotational cycle interrupts the life cycles of soil-borne pathogens and their spread. Legumes are particularly valuable within these systems because they form symbiotic associations with bacteria that capture atmospheric and convert it into plant nutrients. Deep-rooted crops can then be planted in the following season to access minerals from deeper layers. This systematic variation preserves biological and sustains continuous agricultural over many years.