Subsistence farming

Definition

Subsistence farming is a type of agriculture where farmers grow enough food to feed themselves and their families, with little or no surplus for sale or trade. This form of farming is characterized by small-scale production, a reliance on traditional methods, and often occurs in rural areas. It emphasizes self-sufficiency and can be influenced by local climate conditions, soil fertility, and cultural practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Subsistence farming is typically labor-intensive and relies heavily on human labor rather than mechanization or industrial inputs.
2. Farmers engage in subsistence farming mainly for personal consumption, which limits their exposure to market fluctuations.
3. Common practices include mixed cropping, where different crops are planted together, and using techniques passed down through generations.
4. This type of farming is often seen in developing countries, but variations exist worldwide, depending on local conditions.
5. Subsistence farming can lead to greater community resilience as it fosters local food production and reduces dependency on external food sources.

Review Questions

• How does subsistence farming differ from commercial agriculture in terms of production goals and methods?
  • Subsistence farming focuses primarily on producing enough food for the farmer's family, leading to little or no surplus for sale or trade. In contrast, commercial agriculture is geared towards maximizing production for profit, often using advanced technology and techniques. Subsistence farmers typically rely on traditional farming methods suited to their local environment, while commercial farmers may employ mechanization and chemical inputs to increase yield.
• What are some ecological benefits associated with subsistence farming practices compared to large-scale industrial agriculture?
  • Subsistence farming often employs techniques such as crop rotation and polyculture, which can enhance soil fertility and promote biodiversity. These practices help prevent soil degradation and reduce pest populations without relying heavily on chemical fertilizers or pesticides commonly used in industrial agriculture. Additionally, subsistence farmers often have a closer connection to the land and utilize organic methods that align better with sustainable agriculture principles.
• Evaluate the impact of climate change on subsistence farming communities and how it could influence their future practices.
  • Climate change poses significant challenges for subsistence farming communities as they depend on stable weather patterns for crop yields. Changes in temperature and precipitation can lead to decreased agricultural productivity and food insecurity. As a result, these communities may need to adapt by diversifying crops, adopting new agricultural techniques, or shifting planting schedules. The need for resilience against climate change emphasizes the importance of local knowledge and sustainable practices that can help them navigate these environmental changes while maintaining their livelihoods.

Related terms

Sustainable agriculture: Farming practices that focus on meeting current food needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often incorporating environmental health.

Crop rotation: The practice of alternating the types of crops grown in a particular area from season to season to maintain soil fertility and reduce pest buildup.

Polyculture: An agricultural practice that involves growing multiple crops in the same space, promoting biodiversity and reducing dependence on single crop yields.