Organic Farming

Organic farming can be a profitable alternative to conventional farming. At EU and global level the industry is experiencing rapid growth. Currently more than 31 million hectares of farmland are under organic management worldwide. The EU land area under organic management stands at 4% or 6 million hectares of the total area farmed. In Ireland the sector is growing steadily, yet remains relatively underdeveloped with approximately 1% of the total farming area now farmed organically. In mid 2008, 1,445 organic operators were registered with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, including 1,230 producers. The area farmed organically was 44, 600 hectares and average farm size was 36 hectares

Organic farming is a system of farming which avoids the use of soluble fertilisers, pesticides, growth regulators, feed additives and other chemicals. The organic farmer relies on the use of crop rotations, efficient recycling of animal manures, good clover content in pasture, lower stocking rates and good animal husbandry for producing outputs. The natural immunity of plants and animals are used to combat disease whenever possible. The organic tillage farmer and vegetable grower aim to have a high level of organic matter and a high level of biological life in the soil. Excellent husbandry, farm management and planning skills are required, as quick fix chemical and pharmaceutical solutions are no longer an option.

Teagasc support those involved and wishing to get involved in farming organically through our research programmes, advisory service and educational courses.