What is Biointensive Gardening and How Does It Works

November 10, 2023 by Lauro Braganza

If you come here looking for details about biointensive gardening and farming, you came to the right place so continue reading.

In the vast world of agriculture, farmers need to be strategic and resourceful when it comes to planting so that the harvest will be more abundant when the harvest season comes. One of the methods I refer to is Bio-intensive gardening. What is bio-intensive gardening? What is its main purpose?

What is Biointensive Gardening?

Biointensive gardening is a method of biological planting in which a small amount of land is planted with many types of plants but the soil is kept fertile and rich in nutrients. Bio-intensive gardening is a method or technique of planting that focuses on arranging the land for planting. Usually, farmers using this method dig the soil to twice the depth compared to the ordinary depth of the soil pit which does not use bio-intensive gardening. The purpose of the deeper pit is to get the root of the plant more nutrients from the soil. And its return of course is a more abundant harvest.

How is Bio-intensive Farming Done?

Just like I mentioned about bio-intensive, it focuses on plot adjustment or planting land. It is also common to fertilize the soil with organic fertilizer to make it healthier and bring benefits to the crop. Its dried leaves and stems, kitchen leftovers, and other waste are good for making organic fertilizer in the soil.

Examples of Biointensive Gardening

Usually in natural planting, you will plant one row of lettuce on one plot of land and another row of peppers on another plot of land. But with bio-intensive gardening, you can plant lettuce and peppers side by side on a single plot without being deprived of nutrients. This is because the soil is rich in nutrients due to the organic fertilizer applied to it and also because the pit of the cultivated soil is deep.

How to Make a Bio-intensive Garden

Measure the planting bed 6 meters long and 1.5 meters wide. Loosen the soil to a depth of 30 centimeters.
Add soil to the garden bed until it rises.
Put fertilizers such as compost, dry manure, kakawati leaves, etc. in the garden bed.
Mix the fertilizer and the soil well.
Align the garden bed. It is ready for planting.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bio-intensive Farming

Bio-intensive farming, also known as biointensive agriculture, is an agricultural approach that emphasizes the use of organic and sustainable methods to maximize crop yield and minimize environmental impact. Here are some frequently asked questions about bio-intensive farming:

What is Bio-intensive Farming?

Bio-intensive farming is a holistic approach to agriculture that focuses on creating a closed and self-sustaining system. It integrates various sustainable practices, such as organic farming, composting, and companion planting, to achieve high yields with minimal external inputs.

How does Bio-intensive Farming differ from conventional farming?

Unlike conventional farming, which often relies on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, bio-intensive farming emphasizes organic and sustainable methods. It seeks to build healthy, fertile soil and promotes biodiversity to enhance natural pest control.

What are the key principles of Bio-intensive Farming?

The key principles include double-digging (deep soil cultivation), composting, companion planting, carbon farming (to build soil organic matter), and the use of open-pollinated seeds. These practices aim to create a sustainable and regenerative agricultural system.

How does double-digging work in Bio-intensive Farming?

Double-digging is a technique where the soil is loosened and aerated to a depth of about 24 inches. This helps plant roots penetrate deeper into the soil, promoting better water and nutrient absorption. It also improves soil structure and drainage.

What is companion planting in Bio-intensive Farming?

Companion planting involves growing different crops together to enhance their mutual growth and protection. Some plants naturally complement each other, either by repelling pests, attracting beneficial insects, or providing shade and support.

Why is composting important in Bio-intensive Farming?

Composting is crucial in bio-intensive farming because it helps recycle organic matter, replenishes soil nutrients, and improves soil structure. It reduces the reliance on synthetic fertilizers and contributes to a healthier and more sustainable farming system.

How does Bio-intensive Farming promote biodiversity?

Bio-intensive farming encourages the planting of a diverse range of crops and incorporating beneficial plants that attract pollinators and natural predators of pests. This helps create a balanced ecosystem that is less prone to pest and disease outbreaks.

Can Bio-intensive Farming be practiced on a large scale?

While bio-intensive farming is often associated with small-scale and backyard gardening, its principles can be adapted to larger agricultural operations. However, the implementation may require careful planning and management to scale up effectively.

Does Bio-intensive Farming use genetically modified organisms (GMOs)?

Bio-intensive farming generally avoids the use of genetically modified organisms. It emphasizes the use of open-pollinated and heirloom seeds to preserve genetic diversity and promote seed saving.

What are the benefits of Bio-intensive Farming?

The benefits include increased crop yields, improved soil fertility, reduced reliance on external inputs, enhanced biodiversity, and a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system.

These answers provide a general overview of bio-intensive farming, and it’s important to note that specific practices may vary based on local conditions and individual preferences.