How is permaculture farming different from conventional chemical farming?
1. Permaculture farming discourages monocultural practices but in conventional chemical farming, monoculture practices are pre- dominant.
2. Conventional chemical farming can cause increase in soil salinity but the occurrence of such phenomenon is not observed in permaculture farming.
3. Conventional chemical farming is easily possible in semi-arid regions but permaculture farming is not so easily possible in such regions.
4. Practice of mulching is very important in permaculture farming but not necessarily so in conventional chemical farming.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Correct Answer: Option B
Explanation
1. Statement 1 is correct. Permaculture farming emphasizes polyculture and diversity, mimicking natural ecosystems, thus discouraging monocultural practices. Conventional chemical farming often relies heavily on monoculture for efficiency and mechanization.
2. Statement 2 is correct. Conventional chemical farming, particularly with intensive irrigation and the use of synthetic fertilizers, can lead to the accumulation of salts in the soil, causing an increase in soil salinity. Permaculture techniques focus on building soil health naturally, reducing the likelihood of this phenomenon.
3. Statement 3 is incorrect. Permaculture farming principles, such as water harvesting, soil conservation, and use of drought-tolerant species, are often well-suited and adaptable to semi-arid regions. Conventional chemical farming can be challenging in such regions due to high water demands and potential for soil degradation.
4. Statement 4 is correct. The practice of mulching is a fundamental technique in permaculture farming. It helps conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, regulate soil temperature, and build organic matter. While mulching can be used in conventional chemical farming, it is not considered as universally essential or integral as it is in permaculture.
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