Question

Distinguish between primitive and intensive subsistence farming.

Answer 1

Answer:

1.) Simple subsistence farming is practised on small patches of land whereas intensive subsistence farming is practised in areas with high population density on land. 2.) ... Subsistence farming is a slash and Burn methods whereas in intensive farming normal methods are used.

Answer 2

Subsistence farming:

It is a type a farming in which a farmer cultivates agricultural products only for his family needs with a minimal surplus for market. The various types of subsistence farming includes shifting, intensive, primitive farming and nomadic herding.

The difference between primitive and intensive farming are as followws,

Primitive subsistence farming:

• This mainly involves the techniques of the ancient 'slash and burn' in which farmers cut off the crops to clear the land and burn them.
• The obtained ash remains will be used as manure for the plants and crops.
• The farmland is usually the backyard or a small garden area around the house in which the organic household wastes such as vegetables wastes, fruit peels, cow dung, etc are used as manure.

Intensive subsistence farming:

• In this type of farming includes simple tools with heavy labor work. It also involves small plots of land for cultivation.
• In areas of steep hillside, farmers build terraces for their agriculture.This also increases the use of manures, fertilisers and artificial irrigation when required.
• This type of farming is usually done in heavily populated areas to meet the needs of the local population.