Tribute to Masanobu Fukuoka

In the early 1940's  Masanobu Fukuoka developed unique organic farming techniques that does not require weeding, pesticide or fertilizer applications, or tilling. However, He does not consider himself an organic farmer.  Fukuoka practices a system of farming he refers to as "natural farming."   The essence of Fukuoka's method is to reproduce natural conditions as closely as possible.  No plowing is involved,  the ground is always covered with nitrogen fixing clover or with decaying leave matter used as mulch. He also re-introduced the ancient japanese technique known as seed balls (土団子,土だんご,Tsuchi Dango  {Earth Dumpling})

"When it is understood that one loses joy and happiness in the attempt to possess them, the essence of natural farming will be realized. The ultimate goal of farming is not the growing of crops, but the cultivation and perfection of human beings."

— Masanobu Fukuoka 

Part 2