Farmland

Farmland refers to land that is used for agricultural production. It includes arable land for annual crops, permanent crops such as orchards and vineyards, pasture and rangeland for grazing, and land used for horticulture or mixed farming. Farmland can be privately owned, leased, or communally managed and is typically located with access to water, roads, and markets.

Productivity on farmland depends on soil fertility, climate, water availability, drainage, and topography, as well as inputs such as seeds, fertilizer, and equipment. Management decisions—crop choice, tillage practices, irrigation, and pest and disease control—also influence yields and sustainability.

Common types include arable land for temporary crops, permanent cropland for fruit and tree crops, and pasture or meadow for grazing. Horticultural land is used for vegetables, flowers, and other specialty crops. Some farms are mixed, combining crop production with livestock.

Management practices aim to maintain soil health and farm viability. These include crop rotation, cover crops, conservation tillage, drainage management, efficient irrigation, integrated pest management, and nutrient budgeting. Efficient roads, storage facilities, and access to markets support farm productivity.

Environmental and social considerations accompany farmland use. Intensive farming can impact soil structure, erosion, water quality, biodiversity, and greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable farming seeks to balance productivity with soil conservation, water stewardship, pollinator protection, and climate resilience, within regulatory frameworks and land tenure arrangements that affect access and investment.