The fourth consideration is the mental health of the farmer. Through production practices such as cover crops, manure management, timely tillage, companion planting, and low stress livestock feeding programs, fertilizers can be supplied naturally and chemicals can be reduced. Plants and animals feed the microbes in the soil, which, in turn, feed the plants and so the cycle continues. Life on the farm is not just the crop that you see. The crop results from the life in the soil.
Farmers can reap economic benefits from organic agriculture.
However, it requires more forward thinking and long range planning than conventional agriculture. Organically grown products often receive higher per unit prices and returns than conventionally grown products. The resurgence of farmers' markets, community supported agriculture, and direct markets show the consumer's preference for fresh produce and organically grown produce. Wholesalers, processors, grocers, and restaurant buyers have increased their demand and expanded their markets for organically grown products. Markets for organic products are expected to continue to expand in response to the increased consumption and increasing demand for organic produce.