Biologically Intensive Farming Concepts

John Jevens, director of Ecology Action, discusses biologically intensive food raising, emphasizing deep soil preparation, composting, close plant spacing, companion planting, and the use of carbon and calorie crops. He highlights the importance of special root crops for high-calorie production and the use of open pollinated seeds. The system integrates these elements for sustainable food production.

What is the primary focus of Ecology Action?

• Water conservation

• Renewable energy

• Environmentally sound food production

• Animal conservation

How deep is the soil prepared in biologically intensive farming compared to conventional agriculture?

• One foot

• Three feet

• Two feet

• Six inches

What is the role of compost in biologically intensive farming?

• Increases soil acidity

• Holds six times its weight in water

• Prevents soil erosion

• Reduces plant growth

What is the benefit of close plant spacing in this farming method?

• Reduces water conservation

• Decreases nutrient absorption

• Shades the ground to conserve water

• Increases pest infestation

Which of the following is an example of companion planting?

• Carrots and onions

• Potatoes and tomatoes

• Green beans and strawberries

• Corn and wheat

What percentage of the growing area should be dedicated to carbon and calorie crops?

• 90%

• 10%

• 30%

• 60%

Which crop is NOT considered a special root crop?

• Potatoes

• Wheat

• Sweet potatoes

• Jerusalem artichoke

What is the purpose of the last 10% of the growing area?

• To grow missing vitamins and minerals

• To plant more trees

• To increase water retention

• To grow more carbon crops

Why are open-pollinated seeds preferred in this farming system?

• They are cheaper

• They grow faster

• They allow seed saving

• They require less water

What did the intern from Latin America learn during his internship?

• Advanced pest control techniques

• The system of biologically intensive farming

• How to grow hybrid seeds

• More information than in university