5 Best Books on Integrated Farming Systems

“The Bio-Integrated Farm and Home” Book Review: This book offers detailed information on designing and building a variety of bio-integrated projects, including reflecting ponds, water storage ponds, multipurpose basins, greenhouses, compost heat extraction, and pastured chicken systems. The book also covers topics such as aquaculture, hydroponics, hydronic heating, water filtration and aeration, cover cropping, and innovative rainwater harvesting systems.

“Sustainable Intensification in Smallholder Agriculture: An integrated systems research approach (Earthscan Food and Agriculture)” Book Review: This book is an important resource for research and policy in sustainable agriculture. It explains the ecological, economic, and social dimensions of sustainable agriculture, emphasizing the importance of food and nutrition security, gender, and equity. The book covers different aspects of systems research in agriculture, including case studies from various countries and agro-ecological zones in Africa, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific. The book is based on the concept of systems research and sustainable intensification, with a focus on the outputs of three CGIAR Research Programs on Integrated Systems for the Humid Tropics, Aquatic Agricultural Systems, and Dryland Systems.

“Integrated Forest Gardening: The Complete Guide to Polycultures and Plant Guilds in Permaculture Systems” Book Review: This book is a complete reference on plant guilds, providing comprehensive information on what guilds are and how to design and construct them. It includes color photography and design illustrations as well as detailed research on plant guild structures and animal interactions. The book emphasizes the importance of observation and provides a portrait of an oak tree. Additionally, the book covers guild project management, including budgets, implementation, management, and maintenance. The book is helpful for permaculture designers and professional growers.