Polyculture Farming

Polyculture farming is a form of agriculture in which more than one species is grown at the same time and place in imitation of the diversity of the natural ecosystems. Polyculture is the opposite of monoculture, in which only members of one plant or animal species are cultivated together.

This diversity often enhances pollination by different insects, promotes plant moisture, encourages various plant root depths by different plant species, and other beneficial effects for soil regeneration.

Polyculture has traditionally been the most prevalent form of agriculture in most parts of the world and is growing in popularity today due to its environmental and health benefits. Polyculture is advantageous because of its ability to control pests, weeds, and disease without major chemical inputs.

Other advantages associated with a polyculture system as compared to monoculture are better nutrient utilization - nutrients not utilized by one crop will be beneficial to another crop in the crop rotation - and better soil utilization - the soil is used year round.