By focussing on soil health, Conservation Agriculture (CA) is seen as more sustainable than conventional production. This volume summarises research on key components for successful CA including no-till techniques, soil cover and cropping systems as well as the role of livestock and agroforestry.

This volume summarises research on key components for successful Conservation Agriculture (CA), including no-till techniques, soil cover and cropping systems as well as the role of livestock and agroforestry in CA. The first part of the book reviews the current spread of CA globally. The book then reviews ways of optimising no-till techniques to minimise soil disturbance in relation to seeding, weeding and other operations Chapters also review current research on ways to improve soil health in CA, including mulch cover, cover crops, rotations and intercropping. The book also includes case studies on optimising CA in particular systems, including rice, root, tuber and horticultural crops as well as integrating livestock in CA systems. The book concludes by looking at certification schemes and institutional support to promote good CA practice. With its distinguished editor and team of expert contributors, this will be a standard reference on improving Conservation Agriculture practice. The book is accompanied by a companion volume on optimising individual CA practices such as crop nutrition, irrigation and pest management.