Organic farming is a booming business – the number of acres committed to organic farming is on the rise. In 2016 there were 5 million certified organic acres in the United States, according to the USDA. Domestic consumers increasingly value organically-grown food, and being certified organic can also benefit growers who export their products, especially in growing markets like East Asia and the Middle East. A report presented to the Organic Trade Association notes that the share of organic exports compared to combined exports has shown a steady, if modest, increase in recent years.
Organic farming can have several benefits for growers:
- Reducing their reliance on chemical pesticides, fungicides, and herbicides
- Eliminating costs associated with repeated chemical applications, including labor and fuel costs
- Maintaining soil fertility and biodiversity
Farmers must replace chemicals with intelligent strategies to combat weeds, insects, and diseases to see those benefits. Using Belton woven agricultural fabrics can help organic farmers succeed.
Reducing Weed Growth
Organic farmers must control weed growth without resorting to chemical herbicides. Using woven agricultural fabrics in vegetable beds, pathways, greenhouses, or fence lines blocks light to the soil and prevents weeds from taking hold.
Retaining Soil Moisture
Irrigation requires a lot of labor on most farms, and water evaporates quickly from bare soil leading to more frequent irrigation. Woven agricultural fabrics prevent evaporation and help maintain soil moisture, keeping it available for plants and reducing the time spent irrigating.
Increased Yield & Quality
Our fabrics can be modified to increase yield and quality. For example, our white ground cover, Beltech 2911, reflects light onto fruit trees and plants, stimulating plant growth and yield. Woven fabrics can also reduce pest pressure, improving produce quality and leading to higher sale prices.
Belton woven agricultural fabrics are made to withstand the rigors of farm use and will last year after year. With high ultraviolet additives and reinforced edge treatments, our fabrics resist tearing even in heavy wind and rain. For more information about how Belton woven agricultural fabrics can help in organic farming, contact us today.
