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The term monoculture in agriculture refers to the growing of a single crop over a large area. Monoculture is the norm in most large-scale commercial agriculture in the U.S. and in many parts of the world. Monoculture has certain short-term benefits, primarily in terms of economy of scale, and automation of the production process (and thus reduction of labor costs). However, in the long-term, the disadvantages of monoculture are overwhelming – this farming method has numerous negative effects on the environment, and furthermore, these negative effects tend to become amplified over the long-run. This article weighs the pros and cons of this sort of uniform approach to agriculture, and points to some alternative practices that are more sustainable, both environmentally and economically, and thus superior on all counts in the long-run.

Pros and cons of monoculture farming: what are its advantages?

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Calcium is one of the most important plant nutrients. It is essential for building a strong cell membrane structure, and plays important roles in Nitrogen metabolism, protein formation and Potassium uptake. Calcium deficiencies are typically noted in the growth zones such as new top and root growth, and at the bottom end of fruits. Blossom End Rot (BER) in peppers and tomatoes is an excellent example of how weakened cell membranes reduce fruit quality and economic performance.

While the information is there, it is surprising how uninformed we are about Calcium nutrition. Although we have a practical understanding of its role as a soil amendment, eliminating Calcium deficiency in California agriculture can be challenging. Supplying the crop’s need for Calcium is not as simple as calculating the soil’s lime requirements. Nutrient availability is dependent upon many factors beyond total supply such as pH, C.E.C., cation saturation on the CEC, water availability and quality to name a few.

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