Kuivaviljelyssä

Kuivaviljelyssä refers to dryland farming, an agricultural technique used in arid and semi-arid regions where rainfall is insufficient for conventional farming. This method relies on conserving moisture in the soil to support crop growth. Key practices include improving soil structure to enhance water infiltration and retention, reducing evaporation from the soil surface, and managing water resources efficiently.

Farmers practicing dryland farming often utilize techniques such as contour plowing, terracing, and strip cropping to prevent soil erosion and capture rainwater. They also employ fallowing, where land is left uncultivated for a period to store moisture, and the selection of drought-resistant crop varieties. Mulching, using organic materials or plastic films, is another common method to reduce evaporation and suppress weeds, which compete for limited water.

The success of dryland farming is highly dependent on understanding local rainfall patterns, soil types, and the specific needs of the crops grown. It is a sustainable approach to agriculture in regions facing water scarcity, contributing to food security and environmental conservation by minimizing reliance on irrigation and preventing land degradation.