What is the method of terrace farming?

Terrace farming is a method of farming whereby “steps” known as terraces are built onto the slopes of hills and mountains. When it rains, instead of rain carrying away the soil nutrients and plants down the slope, they flow to the next terrace. Every step has an outlet which channels water to the next step.

What type of agriculture is terrace farming?

Terrace farming is the practice of cutting flat areas out of a hilly or mountainous landscape in order to grow crops. It is a practice that has been in use from the rice fields of Asia to the steep slopes of the Andes in South America. Here is a look at how terrace farming has been used across the globe.

How old is this farming method of terraces?

Ancient history Intensive terrace farming is believed to have been practiced before the early 15th century AD in West Africa.

Why is terrace farming common in hills?

Step farming or terrace farming is common in hills to check soil erosion through water current on the slopes. It provides a physical barrier to soil erosion by water. The mountain is made into steps that slows down the speed of rainwater preventing damage to crops.

How is terrace cultivation beneficial?

Terrace farming ensures food security and increases crop yield by water and soil conservation. Thus it reduces soil erosion. In terrace farming, the interaction between water and fertilizer increase results in high yield.

Which type of farming is done on the hillside?

Terrace farming or step farming is commonly done on the slopes of the hills. It is defined as the farming in which the slopes of the hills or mountains are cut in the form of steps so that the farmer gets enough space for cultivating various kinds of crops.

How is terrace farming different from other farming methods?

Terrace farming is a method of farming whereby “steps” known as terraces are built onto the slopes of hills and mountains. When it rains, instead of rain carrying away the soil nutrients and plants down the slope, they flow to the next terrace. Terrace farming prevents the washing away of soil nutrients by the rains.

Which is the best method to prepare soil for farming?

Slash, burn and plant: This process is most suitable for sandy soils which are naturally loose or for other soils that are maintained in good filth (a loose, crumbly situation) by a lengthy vegetative fallow which produces soil humus.

Why is it important to know about land preparation types in farming?

One must know about land preparation types in farming as it plays a major role in growing crops. Tillage is an important and the main tool for conservation of the land. As per definition, its primary function is to provide a favorable soil environment for the plant growth, which is indirectly related to soil conservation.

Why are group methods important to a farmer?

Learning is very much an individual process and, although group methods enable the agent to reach a greater number of farmers, personal contact with and the individual attention of the extension agent are important supports for a farmer.

Terrace farming is a method of farming whereby “steps” known as terraces are built onto the slopes of hills and mountains. When it rains, instead of rain carrying away the soil nutrients and plants down the slope, they flow to the next terrace. Terrace farming prevents the washing away of soil nutrients by the rains.

Where did the practice of terracing come from?

origins of agriculture: Terracing. Terracing, which is basically grading steep land, such as hillsides, into a series of level benches, was known in antiquity and was practiced thousands of years ago in such divergent areas as the Philippines, Peru, and Central Africa.