How to transition to organic farming?

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How to transition to organic farming?

A Path to Healthier Lives and a Greener Planet

In an era defined by rapid change, one shift demands our immediate attention: the profound impact of our food systems on human health and the environment. As we stand in 2025, a critical look at the statistics reveals a stark reality: a significant percentage of diseases, a figure estimated to be as high as 80% between 1990 and today, are deeply rooted in our dietary choices, particularly poor food habits and the selection of chemically laden produce. The drive for quick profits in conventional agriculture has led to practices that, while boosting yields in the short term, come at a steep price for our well-being and the planet.


Paddy field
Paddy field


The Hidden Costs of Conventional Agriculture

The pursuit of rapid returns in conventional farming often necessitates substantial investments in time, money, and energy. To accelerate output, farmers frequently resort to an array of synthetic inputs: chemical fertilizers, herbicides, genetically modified (GM) seeds and plants, and hybrid varieties. While these methods promise efficiency, they are increasingly recognized as major contributors to a host of health issues, especially non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Beyond human health, the environmental toll of conventional farming is staggering. An estimated 70% of environmental challenges can be attributed to these practices. Water pollution, particularly groundwater contamination, is a rampant issue.1 Animals and birds, vital components of our ecosystems, suffer from exposure to harmful chemicals.2 Even the seemingly innocuous farm waste, such as empty fertilizer bags and pesticide containers, poses a significant threat to natural habitats. The cumulative effect is a clear call for a more sustainable approach.



Embracing Organic Farming: A Return to Nature's Wisdom

So, what exactly is organic farming? At its core, organic farming is a nature-based and eco-friendly agricultural method that operates in harmony with natural cycles.3

It's a philosophy that prioritizes ecological balance, biodiversity, and the long-term health of the soil.4 The benefits of this approach are manifold and far-reaching:

  • Nature-Friendly and Eco-Friendly: Organic farming works with nature, not against it, fostering a healthier ecosystem.

  • Low Cost (in the long run): By minimizing reliance on expensive synthetic inputs, organic farming can significantly reduce operational costs over time.6

  • Healthy Outputs: The produce from organic farms is free from harmful chemical residues, offering genuinely healthy food to consumers.

  • Animal and Bird-Friendly: Organic practices create a safer environment for wildlife, encouraging biodiversity on and around the farm.7


The Art of Transitioning to Organic Farming

Transitioning to organic farming isn't a sudden leap; it's a gradual, thoughtful process—an art, if you will. It requires patience, dedication, and a deep understanding of natural systems. While it might seem daunting, the journey is incredibly rewarding.

Here's a practical roadmap for making the shift:

  1. Preparation is Key (2-4 Months): The initial phase is all about preparation. You can't simply stop using conventional inputs overnight. Instead, focus on building your organic foundation:

    • Craft Your Organic Inputs: Begin preparing your own organic fertilizers (compost, manure, vermicompost), and organic herbicides. This takes time, so start well in advance.

    • Source Organic and Traditional Seeds/Plants: Research and acquire organic seeds, traditional varieties, and healthy organic plant starts. These are free from genetic modifications and chemical treatments.

    • Gather Traditional Tools: Embrace traditional farming tools that minimize disturbance to the soil and ecosystem.

    • Cultivate Earthworms: Earthworms are nature's best soil engineers.8 Start a vermicomposting system to produce nutrient-rich castings and introduce earthworms to your soil.

  2. Soil Rehabilitation: Once your organic inputs are ready, the crucial next step is to prepare your soil. Conventional farming can deplete soil health, so you'll need to rejuvenate it.9 This involves:

    • Amending with Organic Matter: Incorporate generous amounts of compost, well-rotted manure, and other organic materials into your soil. This improves soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability.

    • Cover Cropping: Plant cover crops (e.g., legumes, grasses) during fallow periods. These crops protect the soil from erosion, suppress weeds, add organic matter, and fix nitrogen.

    • Minimizing Tillage: Reduce deep tilling, which disrupts soil structure and microbial life. Embrace no-till or minimal-till practices to preserve soil health.

  3. Planting and Nurturing the Organic Way: With your soil revitalized, you can begin planting your organic seeds and plants. The ongoing care is also crucial:

    • Organic Pest and Disease Management: Instead of chemical pesticides, rely on natural pest control methods like beneficial insects, companion planting, crop rotation, and organic sprays (e.g., neem oil).

    • Natural Weed Control: Utilize mulching, hand-weeding, and strategic planting to manage weeds without chemical herbicides.

    • Water Management: Implement efficient irrigation techniques like drip irrigation to conserve water.

    • Observation and Adaptability: Organic farming requires keen observation of your plants and the surrounding environment. Be prepared to adapt your methods based on what you observe.


A Collective Responsibility for a Sustainable Future

Transitioning to organic farming is more than just a change in agricultural practice; it's a commitment to a healthier future. By embracing this approach, we not only produce nutrient-rich, chemical-free food for ourselves and our communities, but we also actively contribute to the well-being of our planet. We safeguard our groundwater, protect vital animal and bird populations, and reduce harmful waste. Moreover, organic farming plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change by sequestering carbon in the soil.

The journey to organic farming is an investment in health—for humans, for the environment, and for generations to come.15 It's a powerful way to save the world, ensure healthy lives for all, and actively care for our climate. Let's cultivate a greener, healthier future, one organic farm at a time.


My name is Thiyananthan Thibakar. I'm a Writer, Motivational speaker, Project assistant in The Library, and a Gardener and nature photographer. Live your life with happiness and new ideas. That is my own thought for you.

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