Last month I discussed tree planting riparian buffers. I want to extend
that topic to what I believe is the future of agriculture, both urban and more broadly,
Agroecology.
Agroecology, is the bringing together of number of science disciplines
to better understand the whole of eco-system. From a land manager’s perspective,
many ecosystem values can be gained utilising the natural advantage of the
whole system.
As a simple example, using our established Riparian Buffers and windbreaks, the next step is to consider the understory plantings to re-establish insect habitat.
As a simple example, using our established Riparian Buffers and windbreaks, the next step is to consider the understory plantings to re-establish insect habitat.
We read daily about the peril of our bees and outbreaks of disease in
crops. There are many more beneficial insects than pests and encouraging these
beneficials is a big advantage:
Pollinator insects provide pollination services to about 80% of our food crops, and consider the many crops, vegetables, flowers, and fruit gardens we have in our region.
Pollinator insects provide pollination services to about 80% of our food crops, and consider the many crops, vegetables, flowers, and fruit gardens we have in our region.
Insectariums, by
encouraging a range of flowering plants to provide food for insects throughout the
year, beneficial insects can provide a major role in insect pest reduction. Many
wineries are already utilising insectariums.
This is not limited to riparian buffers or windbreaks, what about low growing ground covers along cropping paddock fence lines? Topic for another day.
Further reading: Fritjof Capra, 1997, The Web of Life, Harper Collins.
Get involved with local Landcare:
Darren Cribbes
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