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[av_heading heading=’Benefits of urban farming’ tag=’h3′ style=’blockquote modern-quote’ size=” subheading_active=’subheading_below’ subheading_size=’15’ padding=’10’ color=” custom_font=”]
BY JULIO P. YAP JR.
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Monday, February 13, 2017
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WHEN we say urban farming or urban agriculture, it involves a very wide range of questions like where should we develop the farm, what to plant, how do we care for the plants, or what should we do for the produce?
Urban farming can also have an impact on the emotional and social well-being of a person.
Even the Department of Agriculture (DA) has highlighted another benefit of urban agriculture, and that is wellness.
The DA said that with the fast-paced and often stressful city life, urban gardening can serve as an alternative de-stressor.
Many urban gardening hobbyists have already testified on the wellness effects of urban farming to an individual as an off-duty leisure activity.
But like rural agriculture, urban farming also requires careful planning to maximize resources and produce positive outcomes, according to the DA.
If you want to be an urban farmer, there are several things that you have to consider.
Just like any other venture, there are numerous aspects to consider – conducting a research will save time, money, and effort in the end.
By taking into consideration the obstacles which you might encounter as you go along, you will have lesser surprises once you get started.
You have to consider space and production capacity limitations, concerns within your household or neighbors if you plan to go into livestock raising, and of course, financial questions.
There is a need for enough knowledge and expertise with starting an urban farm.
Try to find a learning opportunity in your area or through the Internet, however, look for information which is applicable or may be adopted in your locality.
It is very important for urban farmers to grow products that are most needed by your family, if you are into urban farming as a hobby.
But if you plan to venture into commercial urban farming, grow products which can be easily marketed or those that are in demand.
It is best to consider value-added products if you will be venturing into commercial urban farming.
Some soils in most urban areas have elevated levels of heavy metals, such as lead, or other contaminants.
It is advisable to test the soil and apply the needed measure to solve the problem beforehand.
Most of the beginners have to struggle with the basics of producing crops or raising animals once they get established.
It is best to learn as much about soil, planting, pest management, and of course, watering.
If you plan to raise animals, learn the details on how to care for your livestock.
Be sure to know the basics on how to make the crops you are growing are harvested and stored properly.
This is very important to ensure food safety.
To learn more about urban farming, try to read about urban agriculture articles which are available in the country, and find out the challenges and successes behind this undertaking.
Many Filipinos have already succeeded by being an urban farmer – who knows, you might be one of them in the near future./PN
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