What is Syntropic Farming?

Syntropic farming is a regenerative agricultural approach that mimics nature to create productive and sustainable farms. It involves growing a diverse range of crops in a way that they work together and support each other's growth.

In a syntropic farm, plants are carefully selected and arranged in layers based on their light requirement and growth habits. The taller, more established plants provide shade and protection to the younger, more vulnerable ones. This creates a balanced and harmonious environment where each plant has its role.

The syntropic farming focuses on building soil fertility by promoting biodiversity. Instead of relying on chemical inputs like pesticides and fertilizers, syntropic farmers use organic practices such as mulching, composting in situ by planting a diverse array of plants that are ‘prone to pruning’ and used for ‘chop and drop’ improving soil health and fertility.

By promoting a variety of plant species, syntropic farming reduces the risk of pests and diseases. It also encourages beneficial insects and other organisms to thrive, which helps maintain a natural balance in the ecosystem. This approach minimizes the need for external interventions and fosters a self-sustaining agricultural system.

Syntropic farming also aims to maximize the use of available resources. For example, when one crop is harvested, its residue is left on the soil as organic matter to enrich it. By cycling nutrients and using plants efficiently, the farm becomes more resilient and less dependent on external inputs, mimicking nature and accelerating it, by planting specific plants to aid succession.

Overall, syntropic farming is a holistic and regenerative approach to agriculture that prioritizes the health of the soil, biodiversity, and sustainable productivity. It is an innovative way of farming that embraces nature's principles to create resilient and harmonious ecosystems on the farm with minimal inputs and maximum abundance.

We have implemented ‘Syn City’ our Syntropic Farm on 1.5acres of land, in the paddock closest to the homestead. We had to clear the paddock of setaria grass and prep the ground for planting. It is a onetime preparation of ripping, hoeing and adding inputs to the soil to give it a boost and start from scratch. After that, we won’t disturb the soil again. It is, of course, a work in progress.. so watch this space.

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